Further to our update on the upcoming reforms to car parking requirements, it’s exciting to confirm that these changes are now in effect. Planning Scheme Amendment VC277 was introduced on 18 December 2025 to update car parking requirements across Victoria by better aligning parking provision with actual demand, particularly in areas well serviced by public transport.

Car Parking Requirement (CPR) Maps have been introduced, dividing metropolitan and regional areas into four (4) categories. These maps have been incorporated into VicPlan, the statewide map viewer for location-based planning scheme information.

The CPR Maps use Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 to identify a location’s level of public transport access. Category 1 represents the lowest level of public transport access, where higher car parking rates are required. Category 4 represents the highest level of public transport access, where lower, or in some cases no, car parking is required.

The car parking requirements under Clause 52.06 (Car Parking) of the Planning Scheme have been updated. Table 1 now sets out the minimum and maximum car parking requirements that apply to a use specified in the table, based on the land category identified in the CPR maps.

If land is shown in two or more categories on the CPR maps, the car parking requirements for the higher category apply to all of the land.

The amendment was approved without exhibition to enable timely implementation, recognising the urgent need to align parking provision with demand and avoid unnecessary costs and delays for new housing and businesses.

This reform implements Action 5 of Plan for Victoria, responding to Infrastructure Victoria recommendations and broader climate and transport objectives.

Effective planning controls that reflect how people move today are critical to delivering more affordable, sustainable and well-located development outcomes across Victoria, while also supporting housing diversity, reducing congestion and encouraging greater use of public transport.

The CPR Maps will be reviewed annually in response to changes to public transport timetables, stops and infrastructure.

The Department of Transport and Planning is investigating options for bicycle parking rates and end-of-trip facilities in response to stakeholder feedback. It is anticipated that changes to bicycle parking provisions will occur later this year.

We are pleased to note that we have already been able to take advantage of this update for several applications. To find out how this may affect your proposal, please contact us on (03) 9596 9000 or email info@keenplanning.com.au.