Victoria's long-planned flood reforms have reached the planning schemes. Amendment VC317 came into operation on 20 October 2026, when its approval notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette.
The amendment changes the Victoria Planning Provisions and every planning scheme in the state. The notice says it implements Victorian flood reforms by updating policy and introducing flood planning controls that correspond to a new risk-based rating system.
Is VC317 in force? Yes. The Minister for Planning approved Amendment VC317 and it came into operation when the notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette on 20 October 2026. It applies to the Victoria Planning Provisions and all planning schemes in Victoria.
The five flood risk ratings
The new controls hang off five flood risk ratings, developed by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). The Department of Transport and Planning describes them as follows.
| Rating | Risk level | Planning response described |
|---|---|---|
| FRR 1 | Low | Risks managed through minimum building standards only |
| FRR 2 | Moderate | Risks generally managed with appropriate safeguards |
| FRR 3 | High | Development needs careful assessment |
| FRR 4 | Very high | Generally recommended that development be avoided |
| FRR 5 | Extreme | Development generally inappropriate, to protect natural floodplain function |
In low-risk areas, development is to be managed through the building system, using floor levels and design, rather than through planning applications. Some higher-risk urban areas may instead have a local floodplain development plan that sets requirements and mitigation works.
The rating system was first announced on 3 October 2025, when the Government said it was modelled on the bushfire danger rating system.
When it applies to your area
The controls are in the planning schemes now, but the ratings arrive area by area. Melbourne Water will release updated flood mapping across greater Melbourne in stages over the next few years. New modelling is to be added to schemes through a state-led amendment process, and existing flood studies from Melbourne Water and regional catchment management authorities will be brought in progressively.
How do I find my property's flood risk rating? The Flood Risk Rating Tool on planning.vic.gov.au is searchable by property address. It will show a flood risk rating once the new provisions apply to that area.
The Department has also published a practice note, PPN11b, on planning permit applications under the new provisions. Guidelines for mid-rise and high-rise building design in low and moderate flood risk areas are still being prepared and are not yet in force. The full amendment documents are available at planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection.
What it could mean for subdivision
Flood controls often decide where a building can sit, how high the floor must be and whether a safe way in and out exists during a flood. Those questions matter more when a lot is being split, because each new lot needs its own building area and access.
Do I need a permit to subdivide flood-affected land? Generally, yes. The Victorian Government's water website states that a planning permit is needed for subdivision or works in a flood-related zone or overlay.
As new mapping is applied, some properties may move to a different level of control than they have today. If your block is near a waterway or in an existing flood overlay, it is worth checking the rating as it is released for your area.
- Read our Victoria subdivision guide for how the process works.
- You can check your own block with Subdivision Checker.
- A licensed surveyor or town planner can confirm what applies to your land.
Frequently asked questions
Is VC317 in force?
Yes. The Minister for Planning approved Amendment VC317 and it came into operation when the notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette on 20 October 2026. It applies to the Victoria Planning Provisions and all planning schemes in Victoria.
How do I find my property's flood risk rating?
The Flood Risk Rating Tool on planning.vic.gov.au is searchable by property address. It will show a flood risk rating once the new provisions apply to that area.
Do I need a permit to subdivide flood-affected land?
Generally, yes. The Victorian Government's water website states that a planning permit is needed for subdivision or works in a flood-related zone or overlay.
Sources
- Victoria Government Gazette No. S 613, 20 October 2026 (Amendment VC317)
- Better managing flood risk: planning and building reforms – planning.vic.gov.au
- Flood Mapping Updated For The Future, 3 October 2025 – Premier of Victoria
- Land use planning: floodplain management – water.vic.gov.au
This article is general information only, current at 26 October 2026. Flood mapping and ratings are being rolled out in stages. Speak to a licensed surveyor or town planner about your property.