Introducing Victoria's Mid-Rise Code: What it means for Housing, Developers and Communities
Victoria is taking a major step toward solving its housing shortage with the introduction of the Mid-Rise Code—a new planning reform designed to fast-track medium-density developments across Melbourne and key activity centres.
If you’re a developer, investor, planner, or homeowner, understanding the Mid-Rise Code Victoria is essential as it reshapes how housing approvals work across the state.
What Is the Mid-Rise Code?
The Mid-Rise Code is a new planning pathway that applies to residential developments typically between four and six storeys. It introduces a “deemed-to-comply” assessment process, meaning that projects meeting a defined set of standards can be approved faster and with fewer delays.
This builds on earlier reforms like the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code, which streamlined approvals for developments up to three storeys.
Key Features:
Applies to medium-density housing developments
Covers buildings of 4–6 storeys
Uses standardised design criteria
Enables faster planning approvals
Reduces the need for lengthy council assessments
Why the Mid-Rise Code Was Introduced
Victoria is facing a significant housing shortfall, and planning delays have been identified as a major bottleneck.
The Mid-Rise Code is part of a broader strategy to:
Increase housing supply in Melbourne
Support development near transport, jobs, and services
Reduce planning approval timeframes
Provide more certainty for developers
Recent reforms aim to cut approval times by months and help the state meet long-term housing targets.
How the “Deemed-to-Comply” System Works
At the heart of the Mid-Rise Code is a checklist-style system.
If a development meets all required standards—such as:
Setbacks
Building height
Natural light access
Energy efficiency
…it can be approved without extended planning disputes or tribunal processes.
This approach reduces uncertainty and eliminates many of the delays traditionally associated with planning permits.
Benefits of the Mid-Rise Code
Faster Planning Approvals
Projects that comply with the code can bypass lengthy assessment pathways, helping developers move from concept to construction faster.
Increased Housing Supply
By unlocking medium-density housing in established suburbs, the code supports urban infill development and helps address housing shortages.
Greater Certainty for Developers
Clear rules mean fewer surprises, making feasibility planning more predictable.
Better Use of Infrastructure
Encourages development in well-serviced locations, close to transport, schools, and employment hubs.
Potential Concerns and Criticism
While the Mid-Rise Code has strong support from the development sector, it has also raised concerns:
Reduced ability for communities to object to developments
Questions around design quality and liveability
Potential pressure on local infrastructure
Some critics argue that standardised rules could lead to compromised apartment design outcomes if not carefully implemented.
What This Means for Melbourne’s Property Market
The introduction of the Mid-Rise Code signals a clear shift toward higher-density living in Melbourne.
Expect to see:
More apartment developments in middle-ring suburbs
Increased opportunities for property developers and investors
Greater focus on transit-oriented development
This aligns with Victoria’s broader planning reforms aimed at delivering more homes, faster across the state.
Who Should Pay Attention?
The Mid-Rise Code is particularly relevant for:
Property developers
Town planners
Architects and designers
Real estate investors
Local councils and communities
If you’re involved in residential development in Victoria, this reform will directly impact your projects and opportunities.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Medium-Density Housing
The Victoria Mid-Rise Code represents a major evolution in the state’s planning system. By simplifying approvals and encouraging well-located development, it aims to strike a balance between housing supply, affordability, and urban growth.
However, its long-term success will depend on how well it delivers not just more housing—but better-designed, liveable communities.
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