Your Subdivision
Subdivisions can confuse many, especially those unfamiliar with the terminology and process.
Here’s a straightforward breakdown outlining the key stages and considerations of your subdivision, making the concept more accessible and understandable.
Subdivisions in Four Steps
Subdividing land can seem complex, but it follows a clear process. Whether you’re creating new lots for development or dividing property for family use, understanding the steps helps you plan with confidence. Below is a simple four-step guide to show how a subdivision works from start to finish
Step 1: Planning Approval
Before subdivision can proceed, you must apply for a planning permit with your local council. This ensures your proposal complies with zoning rules, overlays, and local planning policies. Council will outline any conditions that need to be met.
Step 2: Survey & Design
A licensed land surveyor visits the site, measures the property, and prepares a detailed plan showing the new lot boundaries. This plan includes services, access points, and layout considerations for future use.
Step 3: Authority Approvals
The proposed subdivision plan is circulated to service authorities such as water, power, gas, and telecommunications providers. Each authority confirms the lots can be serviced and may impose conditions (e.g., new connections). Council also reviews and approves compliance.
Step 4: Certification & Titles
Once all conditions are satisfied, council certifies the subdivision plan. The final plan is lodged with the titles office, where new land titles are created for each lot. At this point, the subdivision is legally complete and the lots can be sold or developed.
SPEAR
SPEAR (Surveying and Planning through Electronic Applications and Referrals) is Victoria’s online system used to manage subdivision and planning applications. It allows councils, surveyors, referral authorities and Land Use Victoria to review documents, request changes, approve steps, and track progress all in one place. For security and legal reasons, the property owner or applicant must have full control of their own SPEAR account, including logins and permissions. We can guide you through the process, but you will need to submit and approve key actions through your own account.
Recommendations
You're likely going to need to hire services to get the job done. Here is a list of business we know and trust and would recommend you use for your job.
Solicitors
Indeed Convey
55 Anderson Street
Yarraville VIC 3013
03 9681 9888
mary@indeedconvey.com
Local Lawyers
23 Lobelia Drive
Altona North, VIC, 3025
03 9398 2377
David@locallawyers.com.au
Hughes Legal
1/333 Keilor Rd
Essendon VIC 3040
03 9375 4226
mail@hugheslegal.com.au
Saines Lucas
Ararat, Ballarat, Melton, Horsham, Maryborough
03 5332 1584
charrisonwalsh@saineslucas.com.au
Armstrong Collins & DeLacy
140 Mollison Street, Kyneton 3444
conveyancing@acdlawyers.com.au
03 5422 1677
