Sustainable Subdivisions Framework Trial - Stage 1
Current Status - Commencing Stage 2 - Internal and External Stakeholder Engagement
Stage 1 of the project is now complete.
Moving to Stage 2 of the Sustainable Subdivision Framework project, a dedicated Senior Subdivisions Advisor specialising in Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) has been employed, for 12 months, hosted by City of Greater Bendigo Council. Simon Francis will work with key officers from across Mildura Council and applicants to assess their subdivision applications (where these are greater than 15 lots) against the framework. For applicants with smaller subdivisions, we invite you to talk to us about opportunities to apply the Framework to your project/subdivision application.
There is no additional application fee for developers to adopt the framework. While use of the sustainability recommendations is highly encouraged, it is voluntary, enabling capacity building and shared consideration of innovative approaches.
Through the process we aim to encourage the development community to adopt the voluntary recommendations, while simultaneously gaining detailed feedback on the Framework.
For information about how you can be involved in Stage 2 of the project, or to access the resources for use in your subdivision application, please click here for further information.
Background
Stage 1 of the Sustainable Subdivision Framework Trial (Complete).
Mildura Rural City Council, along with partnering local governments from the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE), tested the Sustainable Subdivisions Framework (the Framework) through existing planning processes for an 18-month trial from October 2020 to March 2022.
Since this date 21 Councils have confirmed participation and are now partnering with CASBE in the trial.
Why do we need a framework?
Despite clear objectives in existing planning policy, seeking to influence sustainable design outcomes in the built environment, there is limited information regarding requirements and standards to support robust evaluation of subdivisions from a sustainability perspective.
The creation of a subdivision is the creation of a community. Subdivision design commences with a relatively blank canvas, setting up the life of the community, extending over hundreds of years. The initial subdivision design represents an enormous opportunity to create fundamental conditions, for a sustainable and resilient community.
The long-term nature of subdivision planning is now set against a backdrop where our climate is fundamentally changing. Many councils are planning population growth for the next 20-30 years, in some cases via Precinct Structure Plans, and are currently considering how these communities might contribute to achieving the 2050 net zero emissions target identified in the Victorian Climate Change Act.
What is the Sustainable Subdivisions Framework?
The Framework seeks to mitigate the impact of future climate projection scenarios, by creating sustainable and liveable subdivisions that can adapt to the changing climate. The Framework identifies seven (7) categories that can assist in creating environmentally sustainable subdivisions. These are:
- Site Layout and Liveability
- Streets and Public Realm
- Energy
- Ecology
- Integrated Water Management (IWM)
- Urban Heat
- Circular Economy (Materials and Waste)
The seven Framework categories each include objectives and measurable standards to facilitate stronger sustainability outcomes and apply innovation and implementation considerations to all categories.
For further detailed information about the Sustainable Subdivisions Framework, please visit the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE) website. From the website you can access an extensive array of resources to support the Framework, including a copy of the Framework itself and sample submission requirements. A series of case studies has also been developed, which can be accessed from the website for your convenience.
More information
To view Stage 2 project information please click here.
If you would like further information or to discuss Council’s approach to the Sustainable Subdivisions Framework in more detail, please contact Council's Planning Team by email: planning.services@mildura.vic.gov.au or by Phone on: (03) 50188100.