Free feasibility by registered planner!Dual Occupancy,Townhouses,Property Subdivisions Medical centre,Childcare,Commercial.
Free Property development & subdivision advice by Registered planner.When can you subdivide and sell?250+ permits managed.
AuARCHITECTURE is Melbourne's property subdivision specialist with the real competitive edge.
250+ Permits managed by Swarup, our Founder.
Free Property Subdivision Advice!
We are an architecture and town planning studio based near Melbourne and successfully service all town and regional areas from Sale to Malvern, Doncaster, Moonee Valley, Lakes Entrance, Fawkner, Point Cook, Wyndham, Melton, Bendigo, Shepparton, Campbellfield, Yarra Ranges Shire, Maribyrnong, Maroondah, Geelong.. and the list goes on.
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"Hi Swarup,
The day has finally arrived, thank you so much for all your hard work on this. Ben & I really appreciate you pushing so hard to get this over the line.
It has been great working with you."
Courtney.
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Our Journey with Mr Swarup Dutta began upon receiving a letter from the planning minister stating that the environs overlay prohibiting development over our property was going to be lifted. Our excitement could not be contained at this news. This meant our late father's wish of having my brother and myself develop and live on the land adjoining my mother's house , could now be fulfilled. After extensive research about firms which offer subdivision and planning services, I found that Au architecture stood out amongst the crowd. The firm's track record is impressive. I made the call to Mr Dutta and in retrospect what a great decision that was. Mr Dutta was extremely accommodating and was excited to take on the job despite the substantial obstacles which had to be overcome on the road to gaining council approval. He got to work right away and worked tirelessly to gain council approval. His dedication is unprecedented . One particular example which stands out is a time in which he forwarded an important planning response,which he had waited up for until the early hours of the morning, as soon as he received it. He was able to optimise the cramped site to accommodate semi basement living in a very contemporary design. This was an amazing achievement in a neighbourhood consisting predominantly of 70's style single story dwellings. On a personal level Swarup cares, he understands the stress on the developer in this process and takes the time to check up on the client and offer support. He is extremely accommodating and always responds to queries in a timely manner. Swarup, we can't thank you enough.Our common interests have reinforced our friendship and we hope to be life long friends. You were always there through the trials and tribulations and always the consummate professional.- DA
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We will have three houses on our block all with spectacular views of the bay. The service given by Swarup has been faultless with both process and the design of both houses.Swarup after many briefings created a spectacular home to be sited at the front of our existing home. We received objections and a hearing was called by our council City of Greater Geelong. Swarup attended the hearing and not only overcame the objections he was complimented by the panel on creating an iconic design. This project was approved and will be completed in 2016. The second design was even more challenging as the remaining triangular block was 280 sq meters. Swarup created a two storey two bedroom unit with views across the bay to Melbourne. The council approved the design however following a panel meeting withdrew support. Swarup immediately recommended that we go to VCAT and with the assistance from his suggested legal team our submission was upheld by VCAT who complimented the design. We are absolutely delighted with the dealings over three years and are happy for any of his clients to contact us for a reference which will be fantastic.. E and J Rae
AuArchitecture: Your Partner in Comprehensive Property Development
1. Extensive Experience: Our Founder, with a track record of managing over 250 permits, brings unparalleled experience, navigating the intricacies of property development for both seasoned and first-time developers.
2. Diverse Specializations: From dual occupancy to bespoke residential homes, medical facilities, and industrial projects, AuArchitecture's expertise spans a wide spectrum, allowing us to tailor solutions to diverse client needs.
3. Custom Design Collaboration: Our commitment to collaborative design ensures clients actively participate in the creative process, resulting in personalized and unique solutions for each project.
4. Complete Project Documentation: AuArchitecture handles the entire documentation process, from plans to paperwork, streamlining approvals and easing the burden for our clients.
5. Compelling Town Planning Reports: Crafting persuasive town planning reports is a service we provide, crucial for securing necessary permits and approvals.
6. Application Management: We take charge of the entire application process, liaising with councils, building surveyors, and overseeing subdivision permit applications on behalf of our clients.
7. Collaboration with External Consultants: Partnering with a network of external experts, including engineers, surveyors, energy specialists, and more, ensures a holistic and well-rounded approach to every project.
8. Professional Affiliations: Our Founder's affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the Australian Institute of Architects, The Planning Institute of Australia, and the Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association enhance our knowledge and experience.
9. Geographical Reach: Whether in Melbourne or Regional Victoria, clients benefit from AuArchitecture's one-stop creative design, town planning, and detailed documentation service.
10. Professionally Qualified Team: Led by a Registered Planner and supported by a Registered Architect, our team showcases a skilled staff utilizing the latest BIM software for cutting-edge solutions.
🌐 Discover the AuArchitecture Advantage: Explore Our Free! Property Subdivision Assessment Services
Whether your subdivision or medium density project is in Melbourne or Regional Victoria, you too can benefit from our one stop creative design and detailed documentation service + the experience we gained from 250+ permits.
We offer a high level opinion of the subdivision potential of your land in Victoria.
Swarup, our Founder has developed his own properties.
He is a Registered Planner and affiliated to the Planning Institute of Australia, Australian Institute of Architects & Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association.
He managed 250+ Property Subdivision approvals across Melbourne and regional Victoria for architects and developers.
He is an author, taught and assesses architecture students work at University.
This collective synergy gives us the competitive edge over competitors, who may only be draftspersons, designers or town planners.
The synergy will deliver significant efficiencies and advantages for your project as we manage both architecture and town planning in house.
We work as a team of Registered Professionals including Town Planner, Building Practitioners, land surveyor, engineers and Architects.
Are you thinking of subdividing your land or building a dual occupancy or townhouse development?
Beyond Architecture: Excellence in Comprehensive Town Planning Strategies
At AuArchitecture, our team is not just trained in architecture – we excel in crafting effective town planning strategies. We understand that successful property development requires a comprehensive approach, blending creative design with strategic planning.
Swarup our Founder turned his first home into a dual occupancy subdivision. The profits were put into this land where he owner built another profitable development!
Subdivision process for typical suburban block in Melbourne and surrounds.
The Process for subdividing a typical suburban block around Melbourne is :
Town Planning approval for the dwellings which will occupy the land followed by the building process (if you want to build) and then the land subdivision.
Please note, general and high level information is provided below on subdivision, steps to subdivide in Victoria, subdivision costs, Consultants involved, when can you sell the subdivided lot (contract example), Section 173 agreement, Subdivision permit and obligations, Certification process and more.
Detailed information is provided on engagement of our services.
9 basic steps to check if land can be subdivided. Read about them here
Your property development and subdivision compass. Can you subdivide? Registered Planner advice. 250+ permits managed.
Backyard
Subdivision
Subdivide your suburban backyard for a 2 or more lot Strata subdivision with shared driveway. Sell the new Lot or build to enjoy the profits!
Learn more.
Large blocks for
Multi lot Subdivision
Subdivide your larger block for a multi lot subdivision. Each Torrens Titled lot will be served by a public road. This is like a house and land type subdivision.
Learn more.
Dual
Occupancy Subdivision
Side by side duplex, townhouse or corner lot subdivision is a 4 step process.
When can you sell the new lots? Learn more
Learn more about duplex subdivision.
Our services.
We deliver end to end property development solutions including:
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intelligent design and inhouse architecture
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effective town planning strategy
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inhouse town planning reports
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town planning drawings
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project feasibility
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land subdivisions- planning, survey, permits and documentation
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manage town planning applications at all councils across Victoria
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building permit
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construction documentation
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co ordinate other consultants services, including engineering, energy report, soil report, traffic, arborist and others to get your project started. Read about our Specialist Services.
With over 250 planning permits personally managed by our Founder, why trust your project to inexperience?
Subdivision process for typical suburban block in Melbourne and surrounds.
The Process for subdividing a typical suburban block around Melbourne is :
Town Planning approval for the dwellings which will occupy the land followed by the building process (if you want to build) and then the land subdivision.
Town Planning Permit steps.
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The preliminary design is emailed to you for your review.
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Finalise plans to prepare Town Planning drawings and Planning report which are done inhouse
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Submit Application to Council. We can include an informal application to subdivide. Any informal subdivision approval by Council is an “in principle” consent.
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You pay the Council application fee of around $1580 if the construction cost is less than $1.09m.(Threshold increases eah yesr) We also purchase a recent copy of the title. Add around $700 application fee to apply for an informal subdivision consent.
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The application goes through the process at Council where design changes may be required by the Council.
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We make those changes at no additional fee.
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Council advertises the Application.
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Neighbours or anyone can object.
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Objections are responded to by me, and any compromise design solutions are offered. Again no fees are paid for this service.
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Permit issued which has conditions to be satisfied.
Building Permit steps.
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If you decide to build, we together with other consultants( engineers, energy consultant) prepare the drawings and documents for certification.
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The drawings are sent to tender.
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The builder starts construction only after the drawings are certified by a Building Surveyor.
Subdivision Registration Steps.
If you decide not to build but want to subdivide the land so it can be sold - each with its title- then the process is:
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A Land surveyor draws the formal subdivision plan for certification by Council and acceptable by the Titles office. Additional fees apply- around $6000 (TBC) includes surveyors fees and application fees to the authorities.
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Each lot is connected to essential services ( sewer, water, electricity, gas etc) as per Council subdivision permit conditions.
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On completion of the connections, Council issues a Certificate of Compliance.
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This Certificate together with the formal subdivision plan is submitted to the Titles Office for Registration.
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The Titles Office registers the titles and issues Legal Titles and legal subdivision plans. You can now legally sell and settle the sale of each lot.
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The whole process can take upwards of 15 months. We can project manage this stage for an additional fee.
If you decide to build, the connections to services ( item 2) are done by the builder during construction.
Items 3 to 5 follow to complete the subdivision.
AuArchitecture have all the resources to complete the project.
Registered Architects
Registered Planner
Registered Building Practitioners
Engineers- structural and civil
Registered Land Surveyors
Building Surveyors
Other Consultants- energy, sustainable design assessments, arborists, traffic engineer and others.
Why us? We work tirelessly for your subdivision project!
We are committed to working with you from start to completion. Let's face it, property development will encounter hurdles at Council, objectors or other stakeholders like the various statutory authorities; but we will be with you, shoulder to shoulder all the way.
Swarup, our Founder and Registered Planner, turned his first home into a successful subdivision. He faced all the challenges you will - from neighbours objections, heritage issues, council planner's non support and more. His next development was more challenging! Swarup walks the talk!
Learn more about us and our process below.
We work across Victoria and interacted with all Councils in Mebourne
Can you subdivide your land? Request your no obligation, high level advice. Absolutely free!
Most properties can be subdivided but at what cost is the question on the developer's mind! The land zoning and the planning controls determine if the land is suitable for subdivision.
Some council's require lots to be of a minimum size.
The simplest subdivision is a dual occupancy where there are two dwellings on a block of land. That original block is then carved up into two lots with a common /shared driveway. This is an example of a Strata type subdivision. If the block is large enough you could have three or more townhouses with a common driveway.
In very large blocks, the parcel is carved into smaller lots with named public roads, street lighting and footpaths like you see in typical suburban neighbourhoods. In this instance the common driveway is replaced by a public road with no shared areas. This type of subdivision can be seen in house and land offerings. These lots are Torrens titled. Learn more about larger land subdivision.
Subdividing a typical suburban block is a four step process.
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To do a backyard type subdivision, we will submit an application to Council to subdivide the land for the subdivision permit. (The same process applies if building two or more units on a vacant suburban block or one with a house you will retain or subdividing a larger block of land).
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In most suburban blocks and backyards, Council will also require a development application showing the siting of the second home in the backyard with floor plans, elevations, shadow diagrams etc and a Planning Report demonstrating compliance with the planning scheme and in particular Rescode.
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Council will issue a subdivision permit with conditions which requires certain works to be completed (like connection of all services - water, sewer, power, NBN etc- to the new lot, the backyard in this instance). On completion of these works Council will issue a Statement of Compliance (SoC). A formal plan of subdivision will be drawn by our Registered Surveyor which is certified by the Council (certified plan).
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Your conveyancer or lawyer or you can then lodge the SoC together with the certified plan of subdivision to the Registrar of Titles, Victorian Land Titles Office. That office will issue the new Registered Lots each with its own title.
Once the subdivision permit is issued by Council , you can start the sale process if you do not want to build. However any sale settlement will only occur after the lots are registered.
Learn more about when can you sell the new lots.
This process could take 12-18 months. You should budget around $30,000+ for a simple subdivision.
That will cover professional fees, connections and contributions for sewer, water, electricity etc.
Stormwater/drainage ( the civil works) itself can cost $10,000 upwards, depending on the civil engineer's design and Council's requirements.
If you decide to build the new house in the backyard, you could start the subdivision process once your builder installs the services to the new house and connects to all the essential services like sewer, water, power. You can then obtain the SoC and lodge with the formal plan of subdivision at the Titles Office.
In a typical suburban subdivision, a Dual occupancy - building two or more units in tandem (with one unit behind the other ) requires a 3m wide driveway to the back.
There are other design requirements to be addressed.
Site orientation, vegetation, shadowing are just some of the other design and planning criteria we analyse in the subdivision application.
A side by side duplex type dual occupancy should ideally have a north facing backyard for bright and energy efficient living spaces.
A wider frontage has design advantages. Some councils discourage duplexes on narrow sites.
AuArchitecture obtained a duplex on a 12m wide site in Yarraville for our dentist client who lived in Canada. We are working on a duplex for an 18m wide site for a Doctor who lives in Hong kong.
Learn more about dual occupancy subdivision and site criteria below.
Building townhouses (units) on a block deploys the same design and subdivision principles.
Swarup the Founder of AuArchitecture has obtained permits for 2-15+ units on a block.
PS. This is Swarup, our Founder's, waterfront beach house he owner built ( even though Council said the land was unbuildable). It sold three times.The last in 2023 for $5.71 million. He turned his first home into a profitable dual occupancy subdivision. Proceeds of which bought the beach site and another which was zoned into residential units near a prestige school.
Ready to find out what is possible on the land?
Complete the information below and Swarup our Founder will provide a no obligation, high level opinion on the development potential ; and it's completely free.
Your information will always remain confidential.
The 4 steps to Subdivision.
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A planning permit for the subdivision is granted under the provisions of the local governments Planning Scheme ( the planning “rules”)
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Council certifies the plan of subdivision, which approves the subdivision under the Subdivision Act. A fee of around $200 is paid for a simple two lot subdivision
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Thereafter the Applicant must meet the Subdivision Permit conditions which includes connecting the services like sewer, water, electricity, NBN etc). On completion of these works Council issues a Statement of Compliance (SoC). In some instances these works can be deferred by way of a Section 173 Agreement.
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Your conveyancer or representative can then lodge the SoC and Plan of Subdivision documents with Land Victoria which allows new lots to be issued for each lot created under the subdivision.
How big is my new townhouse?
The first question on the property developer's mind is house and lot size then followed by " how many bedrooms?"
The developer can then estimate the cost to build the project, the selling price and the profit they might make.
AuArchitecture can provide a high level opinion of what Council would likely to support on the land. This is a complimentary service!
For a more detailed analysis and feasibility, AuArchitecture can be engaged to provide other. They include concept plan, feasibility, town planning drawings, town planning report, subdivision plans and construction (Building Permit) documentation.
The size of the house on the block- be it a single dwelling, a dual occupancy or townhouse development- will rely on the Council's planning scheme ( the "rules").
We will calculate the size of each dwelling from the zoning, the schedule to the zoning, any other planning scheme overlays, the garden area requirements, the site coverage allowed and other factors which play a role on the size of the dwelling.
Those factors could include the neighbourhood character to be met, Councils strategic plan for the area, vegetation on the land, on the nature strip and on abutting property to name a few.
The key items to consider for a fast appraisal are:
The Site coverage
Building Setbacks
Garden Area
Permeability
Landscape
Open Space
Parking
Driveways in Strata lot subdivision
Roads in Torrens title subdivision
When can you sell your backyard?
In many instances, the land owner might be thinking of selling the backyard or an apartment " off the plan". They could take a nominal holding deposit subject to legal contract terms. However the settlement will only occur after the backyard/ the lot is legally registered with its own title.
In one recent Chadstone project, the parents sold the backyard to their daughter, so she could start building her first home.
They legally subdivided the land before construction of their daughter's new home in the backyard.
We obtained their subdivision planning approval and permit for the new home in the backyard.
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The rear lot was connected to all the services,
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Council then issued the Certificate of Compliance.
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The formal plan of subdivision was drawn by our Registered Surveyor.
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They registered these documents with the Titles Office.
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They legally sold the backyard to their daughter who had obtained bank finance to purchase the Registered rear lot.
Contract of Sale - Special Conditions to sell the lot
Once Council granted a permit to subdivide the land, the Vendor's lawyers drafted a Contract to sell the new lot requiring a deposit.
It contained the standard terms and conditions. However Special Conditions were included as the new lot was not registered. In other words all the essetial services were not connected to the lot as yet.
The Special Conditions could read like this:
25.1. Registration of Plan
25.1.1. This contract is conditional upon the Plan attached to the Vendor’s Statement (subject to any alteration thereto as hereinafter mentioned) being duly sealed and certified with a Statement of Compliance by the Council and registered at the Victorian Land Titles Office within twenty- four (24) months from the date hereof PROVIDED ALWAYS that the Vendor reserves the right to make such alterations to the Plan and the lot hereby sold or other lots in the Plan as may be demanded or requested by the Council or the Registrar of Titles as prerequisites to the sealing and registration of the Plan and such alterations as may be considered desirable by the Vendor or which it deems will assist in the registration of the Plan.
25.1.2. The Vendor will use its reasonable endeavours to cause the Plan to be sealed and certified as aforesaid as soon as practicable and will as soon as practicable thereafter apply to the Registrar of Titles for the registration of the Plan from the Victorian Land Titles Office without the Purchaser’s prior written consent and will with all reasonable diligence satisfy all requisitions made by the Registrar of Titles and will do all other things within its power to procure registration of the Plan as soon as practicable.
25.1.3. In the event of the Registrar of Titles failing to register the said Plan within twenty-four (24) months from the date hereof, either party will have the right to rescind this Contract by giving notice in writing to that effect to the other party prior to the Plan being registered.
25.1.4. If any requirement imposed in relation to the Registration of the Plan is in Vendor’s opinion too onerous for the Vendor to perform, the Vendor may end this Contract by notice in writing to the Purchaser.
25.1.5. In the event of either party electing to terminate this Contract pursuant to the rights conferred by this Special Condition herein all monies paid by the Purchaser on account of the purchase price shall be refunded to him in full but the purchaser shall not be entitled to any compensation from the Vendor in respect of any costs, fees or other expenses paid or incurred by the Purchaser in relation to or arising out of this transaction.
25.2. Alterations to the Plan
25.2.1. The Vendor reserves the right to make such alterations to the Plan, including to the Restrictions, as may be required to enable certification and registration of the Plan or which the Vendor may require and which do not materially affect the Property.
25.2.2. Subject to the purchaser’s rights under the Sale of Land Act 1962, the Purchaser must not make any objection or requisition or claim any compensation in respect of any excess or deficiency whether in area, boundaries, measurements, occupation or otherwise on the basis that the Plan as registered by the Registrar of Titles does not agree in measurement or otherwise with the copy of the Plan attached to the Vendor’s Statement or the Land as inspected by the Purchaser.
extracted from a contract prepared by lawyers.
Larger block subdivision
You might own a large parcel of land or are thinking of buying one for subdivision.
We can design the multi lot subdivision and do a feasibility report on estimated development costs.
We can apply and obtain the subdivision permit, write the Clause 56 report and have the formal plan of subdivision prepared for Registration of titles.
Council will require the lots to be connected to the services like sewer, water, power, etc as part of the Subdivision Permit Conditions.
Construction of the Public Roads, individual crossings to each lot, footpaths, street lighting and landscaping are some other permit conditions to be satisfied.
Once the Council issues the Subdivision Permit, you can offer the lots for Sale even before they are Registered, in other words you have not yet satisfied the Permit conditions like connecting all services to the lot.
Your lawyer can prepare Sale Contracts with Special Conditions which enables you to take deposits. Once the Permit conditions are satisfied and the lots are formally registered with the Titles Office you can legally settle on the sale of these blocks.
In larger lot subdivisions you will usually have individual lots with Torrens title. In such subdivisions, the lots are serviced by a public road which have footpaths, nature strips, street lighting etc.
The development costs are consequently higher with prices ranging from $40,000 upwards per lot and even as high as $110,000 per lot in some areas!
On the other hand if you were to build townhouses, then the public roads will be replaced by a shared driveway. Development costs are less per lot in this type of Strata titled development, where sale prices may be lower. The owners share and maintain common property.
Common types of titles in Victoria, Au
Torrens titled lots with public named roads, footpaths, nature strips with trees, street lighting.
Strata titled lots with owners corporation, shared common driveways, common property.
About us.
AuArchitecture is led by Swarup who is a Registered Planner and belongs to the Australian Institute of Architects.
He developed his own properties including subdivision and walks the talk. He can design for occupant comfort as well as deploy intelligent town planning solutions which resulted in hundreds of Victorian Planning Permits ( 250 plus!). He has interacted with most councils and that is an additional competitive edge. It's really a win win win scenario.
He will give you an honest opinion of what council will support and not just what you want to hear!
We will provide you with:
First the Town Planning Permit followed by the Building Permit if required.
The documentation are as follows:
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the design of the project- floor plans, elevations an all the other architecture drawings required by council for a typical suburban subdivision ( see example)
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the town planning report
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the subdivision plan
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manage the Town Planning application at the council
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after Council approves the Town Planning Permit, we prepare the construction drawings where engineering and other consultants are involved. This stage is called the Building Permit.
Swarup is supported by a Registered Architect and Registered Building Practitioner.
We get you the Town Planning Permits for subdivision and thereafter the Building Permit if you wish to build. The builder can submit a quote based on the Town Planning drawings and the Building Permit certified drawings. Your financier will require these drawings to lend.
We have all the consultants required for the project- land surveyor, structural, civil and traffic engineers, Building surveyor and Quantity Surveyor to name a few who will play a role in your subdivision.
AuArchitecture Projects
Duplex- subdivide the 2 lots before construction at Tarneit
Dual occupancy - 2 lot strata subdivision with shared driveway at Chadstone. Budget for $15K subdivision costs per lot.The rear lot was subdivided before construction.
Multi-lot strata subdivision for townhouse project entering construction at Wallan.
The developer Strata titled the lots and sold all 8 units off the plan. The driveway is a common property shared by all 8 owners.
2 Lot corner site subdivision nea Bendigo. We subdivided the corner lot. The owner rents out the house and sold the corner lot.
Multi lot Torrens Title subdivision. Budget for minimum $60,000 plus per Torrens titled lot.
Torrens Titled lots have wide public roads, footpaths, nature strps, street lighting which costs more to build than a townhouse site with a narrower driveway.
Duplex- live in one rent out the other at Blackburn
Multi lot subdivided estate interstate
Unusual subdivision at St.Kilda! The 1970's strata titled red brick villa is one of five in the development. We are doing an Air Space subdivision. The villa will be demolished to make way for three, two bedroom Strata units with roof gardens. Its the owners Super.
Please complete the Form below and we can start the process.
The initial high level advice is 100% complimentary and without any obligations.
Two lot side by side subdivision
Two lot dual occupancy subdivision
Four lot subdvision with shared driveway
All content shown on this webste is general in nature.
Individual lots require individual development assessment.
A High assessment Complimentary is availabe. Limit two per inquiry.
All fees and costs shown on this website are approximate and relevant to the time the article was first written.
Read on I Recap I Relearn
More information on property subdivision
Property subdivision is the process or creating two or more blocks of land ( also known as Lots) from one parent block. Each lot thus created will have its own title.
The two common forms of titles in Victoria are Strata Title and Torrens Title. Simply put, Strata lots share common areas like a shared driveway or a lobby whereas Torrens title lots do not.
Most suburban blocks fronting a public road have Torrens Title. They are often subdivided to create two or more Strata Titled lots- like a dual occupancy development.
Many developers use a dual occupancy to subdivide their block and liquidate the hidden asset in your backyard.
A typical dual occupancy will adopt a strata type subdivision where both the dwellings might share a common driveway.
For the adventurous, one would demolish the existing house (if one exists) and build three or more townhouses, or an apartment type development or even a duplex type dual occupancy, where the two dwellings sit side by side.
These type of developments usually generate strata type lots with common property- like a shared private driveway in a townhouse project or the lobby, car park, service areas and public corridors in apartments or industrial projects.
In larger parcels of land, the lots can be Torrens Titled where there is no common or shared property. Driveways are replaced by wider public roads with footpaths, street lighting and each lot is directly connected to the services.
Torrens titled blocks are more expensive to subdivide compared to Strata titled lots.
As a very rough guide, a two lot subdivision in a dual occupancy could cost around $30,000+ over and above building costs. That amount is paid for works required by council before the new lot can be registered. The works include connection of services to the new lot(s) like sewer, water, telecoms, power etc. There are contributions to be paid for such services.
If you are building three or more units (town houses) Council will require a contribution, which is usually around 5% of the land value.
Read more about the costs involved.
A Torrens title lot on some blocks could cost in excess of $60,000 per lot where public roads with footpaths, landscaping, lighting kerb and guttering are designed to carry heavy trucks.
In a sloping site it could increase to $70,000+
If one does the maths right, subdivision is a great way to build wealth.
Our Founder subdivided his first home and invested the profits into other development sites. He is a Registered Planner with a degree in architecture.
Contact him in confidence to find out if your property can be subdivided.
Learn more about the subdivision process and costs below.
In a nutshell, the subdivision process to obtain new titles is as follows:
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Obtain subdivision approval from Council who will issue a Permit with Permit Conditions.
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Satisfy those permit condition works- eg connect services like sewer, power and so on.
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On completion of the works specified in the Permit Conditions Council, issues a Certificate of Compliance.
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A Registered Land surveyor prepares the Plan of Subdivision in the approved format for certification by council.
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You or your representative can then lodge the Certificate of Compliance and Plan of Subdivision with the Titles Office and pay the appropriate fee.
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The Titles Office then issues the legally registered titles and lot plan of subdivision.
Tax Implications.
You should seek specialist advise on such matters.
The following is an extract from the ATO website:
Subdividing land
If you subdivide a block of land, each resulting block is registered with a separate title. For capital gains tax (CGT) purposes, the original land parcel is divided into two or more separate assets.
Subdividing land is not a CGT event if you retain ownership of the subdivided blocks, so you don't make a capital gain or loss at the time of the subdivision. However, you may make a capital gain or loss when you sell the subdivided blocks.
The date you acquired the subdivided blocks is the date you acquired the original parcel of land. The cost base of the original land is divided between the subdivided blocks on a reasonable basis.
Backyard subdivision- a dual occupancy.
The most common form of subdivision is retaining the existing home and building a new dual occupancy home in the backyard ( or front yard in some instances) or on the side, in corner sites.
A Town Planning Application is often required for a second home on the block in typical suburban blocks across Victoria. The Application documents include a suite of plans, elevations and a planning report.
After Council's approval, you will need to satisfy the Planning Permit conditions, like connecting all the essential services to the backyard ( the new works), before you can register the new lot (s) with the Land Titles Office.
In some instances, some Council's will enter into a Section 173 agreement which defers doing those works.
Most developers build the new dual occupancy house connected to power, water, NBN, sewer and other services, then subdivide, register the new lots and then sell the new lot with the new home to maximise profit.
Others just connect the services and sell the new lot(s) or if acceptable to your local council, enter into a Section 173 Agreement which is drafted by Council's lawyers for a fee.
In many instances, they move into the new home and sell the front home to enjoy tax benefits.
These lots are usually strata titled with common property like the shared driveway.
Site criteria.
In the typical backyard subdivision, the vehicle access to the backyard is important. Your land must be able to accommodate a 3 metre wide driveway to service the rear. The 3 metre distance is measured from side of existing house to side boundary (fence in some instances).
In multiunit developments the driveways might be wider than 3 metres.
Each dwelling ( including the existing house) must satisfy the planning requirements.
They include:
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providing private open space (POS) located in the side or rear of each dwelling
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POS access from a living area in the dwelling
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parking (1 car space for 2 bedrooms and 2 spaces for 3 or more bedrooms- an enclosed study is now classified as a bedroom)
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Councils discourage parking in the front yard
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driveway design and turning circles
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orientation of living room
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energy efficiency
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impact of overshadowing on neighbouring land to name a few. Councils discourage parking in the front yard.
What is the Ultimate Dual occupancy site? Read on....
There are a host of other planning requirements to satisfy, including satisfying the standards of Rescode, commonly known as Clause 55.
In dual occ or unit developments, the zoning, the schedule to the zoning, planning overlays, vegetation, any minimum lot sizes prescribed by council, streetscape/neighbourhood character, non restrictive title, easements and other requirements will determine if you can develop and then subdivide the typical suburban block.
If subdividing a large block or acreages, green or brownfield sites, the design of the new lots, lot size, zoning, overlays, access, provision of services to each lot and compliance with Clause 56 are some of the planning requirements to be satisfied.
Side by side - Duplex subdivision
High land value and/or poor condition of existing house could result in demolition of the existing house on a block for a side by side 2 lot subdivision.
Some council's require minimum width for the front boundary for a duplex.
A north facing rear boundary ticks more planning boxes than others; as the new unit(s) will cast less shadows on neighbouring land and provide opportunities for energy efficient living.
The duplex subdivision can, in some instances, be two Torrens titled lots (highest resale value) or strata titled blocks.
AuArchitecture are subdivision specialists. We design the new dual occupancy or town houses, apply for the planning and subdivision permit and guide you through the maze of planning requirements.
Our land surveyor provides all the necessary subdivision plans for the registration of each new lot.
Contact us for a complimentary site assessment.
Can you subdivide your land? Find out if you can within 24 hour.
What are the 4 steps to a subdivision? When can you sell the backyard? Can you subdivide your backyard? Free Opinion.
What are the two common types of subdivision? Read on
What are the subdivision costs ? Read on
What are the steps to a Subdivision? Read on
When can I sell my backyard? Read on
What is the Ultimate development site?
Can you subdivide your land? Complimentary advice. Contact us.
Different types of subdivision- which one is yours?
 Corner block subdivided into 3 strata lots due to shared connections to services. Adjoining dual occupancy strata lots with one unit behind another sharing common driveway. |  Property subdivision for acreage with more expensive 18m wide public roads, footpath, kerb and gutters and no shared or common areas. Hence each lot is Torrens titled. If the road was substituted by 6.4m wide common/shared driveways, each lot would be strata titled. |  Existing house retained. New lot at back.Most common type strata subdivision with shared driveway |
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 Dual occupancy development- one unit behind the other to create a 2 lot strata subdivision with common property being the shared driveway |  Typical dual occupancy subdivision. The two new lots share a common property (driveway) |  Side by side units duplex style dual occ. The Basement parking is divided into two lots with driveway as common shared area. |
 Duplex dual occ. Block split into two lots with minimal common property. |  Corner block creates opportunity for two Torrens titled lot subdivision with no common or shared driveways. |  Four unit development will create a 4 lot subdivision with one common driveway in this strata subdivision. |
 4 lot subdivision with shared driveway. |  Duplex dual occupancy with minimal shared area. The two lots are strata titled as services are shared. |  Apartment with each unit to be a strata lot. Lifts, lobbies, circulation corridors, stairs parking are shared areas. |
TYPICAL DUAL OCCUPANCY OR MULTI UNIT DEVELOPMENT WITH SUBDIVISION
The smaller development.
A dual occupancy developer- often mum and dad investors- may consider subdividing their backyard and release cash from their unused backyard.
They might retain and rent out the existing home, or renovate it and or sell it a later stage or live in the new home in the backyard and sell the existing home.There are tax advantages and benefits for each scenario and we suggest you discuss this with a qualified accountant.
Duplex or Tandem dual occupancy
In a duplex development the two units sit side by side each facing the street.
In the typical tandem dual occupancy, the two houses (units) are located one behind another with a common driveway servicing the units. The front unit can share this common driveway, or if council allows, have its own driveway which adds more value to each home,
Two lot subdivision with no common property resulting in two Torrens titled lots for the duplex development.
Plan of subdivision with common property being the shared driveway resulting in 4 Strata titled lots and one common property.
Strata Title and Torrens Title.
In a typical dual occupancy development a block of land is subdivided to create two lots or more lots (in a 3+townhouses) with a common driveway. The sharing of the driveway ( called the common property) will result in Strata Title lots with an Owners Corporation.
On the other hand if there was no common property, the lots would be Torrens Title with no owners corporation. Most suburban blocks are Torrens Title where access is by way of a public road.
In some instances, for a corner block or a very large block of land, each unit might have its own Torrens title with no common property.
The Ultimate development site for a small subdivision.
What is the Ultimate Dual Occupancy Site in Melbourne for dual occ and townhouse projects?
This is the million dollar question!
The Ultimate Development Site (UDS) should satisfy all of these characteristics but if it does not is not the end of the world:
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The cost of the site should result in acceptable development margins. How much is a development site worth?
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The site width should allow for two crossovers if want a high yielding development. Wide sites are great for a side by side duplex or for 2 or more "one behind another" type development.
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A duplex site should have a 16m + frontage with the back boundary facing north to minimise overshadowing on neighbouring land.
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The site length and area should allow adequate north facing open space for recreation and landscaping
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Corner sites offer tremendous planning and design advantages
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The site should be close to infrastructure, schools, shops and transport- location is king!
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The title should be clear of restrictions and preferably without any easements- check for Covenants or Section 173 agreements on title
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All the essential services should be available onsite or in close proximity and run in the most advantageous position
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The site orientation should be perfect so that the amenities of neighbouring properties are not adversely affected by over shadowing
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The zoning of your land and it's associated Schedule should not be too restrictive
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The planning overlays on your land should not be too restrictive like heritage, vegetation protection etc.
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The site should be fairly level to reduce build costs
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There should be little or no significant vegetation on the site and on abutting sites within say 5 m of the common boundaries
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A soil test should demonstrate the foundations will not require additional strengthening
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There should be no encroachments on your title boundary or by your property on adjoining allotments
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There should preferably be precedents for similar development in your neighbourhood
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There should be no planning overlays burden
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Your local Council should encourage development to meet their housing stock forecast
But don't fret if your property isn't the perfect ten. An experienced architect or designer with sound town planning skills and knowledge will get great results from challenging sites. We will get you great outcomes even if the property is not the Ultimate development site!
Are you ready to find out the development potential of your land? Complete the form below for a Complimentary site assessment- and it's 100% obligation free!
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The duplex was approved due to the wide frontage
In this "one behind the other" type dual occupancy the front faces north which creates overshadowing
to the house behind the new dual occ house in the backyard
When can you sell these lots?
Ideally after the lots are registered with the Titles office who issues individual registered titles.
How do you obtain the Title to each new lot?
The process to obtain the title is as follows :
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Obtain subdivision approval from Council who will issue a Permit with Permit Conditions.
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Satisfy those permit condition works- eg connect services like sewer, power and so on.
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On completion of the works specified in the Permit Conditions Council issues a Certificate of Compliance.
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A Registered Land surveyor prepares the Plan of Subdivision in the approved format for certification by council.
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You or your representative can then lodge the Certificate of Compliance and Plan of Subdivision with the Titles Office and pay the appropriate fee.
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The Titles Office then issues the legally registered titles and lot plan of subdivision.
Section 173 Agreement.
Alternatively, in some Councils, you could enter into an 173 Agreement with Council, where the land developer "promises" to do those Permit condition works at a later stage.
The promise will be recorded on title as a Section 173 and can be removed on completion of the permit condition works. The onus could be transferred to the purchaser
You could do the works later, for example when a deposit is paid by a purchaser or share the responsibility to complete the Works specified in the Permit conditions with the purchaser of the subdivided lot.
What are the subdivision costs in Victoria?
The subdivision costs are generally over and above the cost to construct the new dual occ or townhouses on he land. Ask your builder if they have allowed for these costs.
In 2018, in a typical dual occ development , the construction cost will depend on the level of finishes, inclusions, facade materials, roof type (tiled roofs are generally less expensive) ease of build (a flat block is easier to build on and requires less or no retaining walls compared to a sloping block).
Build costs alone can be upwards of $1000/sqm for basic single storey to $1350 upwards for a double storey.
Subdivision costs- to connect services, driveway and crossover construction- can be around $15,000+ upwards depending on location of existing services, length of driveway and so on.
A recent 5 lot subdivision costs around $45,000 over and above building costs for the five units which were stacked beside each other.
 Strata titled large subdivisionAn estate can be subdivided into strata lots. Each lot will most likely hare common properties- like driveways, landscape and similar amenities | Torrens TitleA large subdivision can have individual lots sharing no common property. The driveways and nature strip will be public access managed by local council |
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SUBDIVIDING LARGER BLOCKS OR BACKYARDS
Alternatively, if the land is sufficiently large or the local Council is supportive of a straight out subdivision, without the need approve the individual house plans, Council may consider the subdivision under Clause 56.
In this instance, once the lots are legally created, the land owner can sell the vacant portion of the block to a purchaser who will build the new home or homes.
In a Torrens Title, larger blocks of land will be carved out into smaller blocks with generally no common property. Each lot will be serviced by a council owned road which adds significant costs to the development. Houses/lots will be numbered, for example as 1,2 3 etc. Brownfield Road - a road which the developer will create, build and handover to Council to manage. These lots command higher prices as each lot pays individual rates and share no costs to maintain common property.
Each lot must be connected to services and drained in accordance with council requirements.
Roads are wider and built to a higher standard, being a public road. Nature strip, landscaping and street lighting will add costs and reduce developable lot sizes.
The developer can sell the lots in a larger sized development prior to registration of titles but will advise the purchaser the titles will be issued in future when they have met Council's subdivision conditions at which stage.
A large estate can also be subdivided into Strata lots with each lot sharing common property. As a result common property cost are shared among the individual lot owners. Driveways in strata lots are narrower and more cost effective to build.
In either scenarios services are required to be connected to each lot or "delayed" through agreement with Council.
What is the subdivision process? Learn more
Can you subdivide your land? How many lots can you create? What type of subdivision will apply to your land? Contact us for a HIGH LEVEL, obligation free and confidential response.
Or call Swarup, our Founder direct on 0448 170 132 for an opinion.
Subdivision Costs
Property development costs
Land Purchase Price
Stamp Duty
Finance Application Fee
Conveyancing cost
Pre Purchase Reports
Council Application fee
Council Contribution Fee
Marketing costs
Agents Fee
Legal fees
Interest rate
Holding cost for Land
Interest on Construction loan
Tax if applicable on Profit
Soft and Construction Costs
Land Survey
Soil Test
Architect/Designer
Structural Engineer
Civil Stormwater Engineer
Traffic
Arborist
Landscape Designer
Construction documentation
Other Reports
Project Management fee
Subdivision cost
Council Application fee
Council Contribution Fee
Electricity fee
Drainage fee
Demolition
Build Cost
Landscaping
Driveway
Fencing
Letterbox etc
Subdivision Costs.
There are a number of items to consider.
The following are some of those costs you must budget for.
All of them might not apply to your subdivision.
These costs applied a few years ago , are approximate and could increase at any time.
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Approximate contribution fees payable directly to Council. Usually applies to more than 2 lot subdivision and varies from council to council. It can be 5% of the land cost and more.
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All costs and fees shown on this website are approximate and to be verified by the land owner
First stage: Council ( fees applicable at 2017, are approximate and to be verified)
$1278 - Council (subdivision approval fee)
$700 - Drainage plan checking and supervision fees ( by council)
$ 650 - Sewerage contribution (if you have commenced building this has already been paid)
$ 650 - Water supply contribution (if you have commenced building this has already been paid)
$3400 - Per Power pit – serves up to 6 units. May need more depending on configuration of development (if you have commenced building this has probably already been paid)
$3500 varies - Drainage contribution (applies in some Councils where no on site detention is required)
$ 600 - Telecommunications (NBN) report (to be provided by an authorised and accredited Telstra contractor)
$2000 - Sec. 173 agreement (required if titles are required prior to completion of development)
$5,000 - Bond per lot for any incomplete works
$TBC - Land Surveyors fees for Re establishment survey and drawing up the Plan of Subdivision
$2500 - Crossover widening or reinstatement approx.
$8000 - Onsite detention
$18000 - New driveway ( depends on length of the driveway)
Second stage: Land Registry
$ 944.80 - Land Registry registration fee
$ 800 - Solicitor/Conveyancer
$ 400 - Bank endorsement fee (if mortgaged).
$600 TBC - Land surveyor fee per lot to be pegged
The above fees, whilst approximate, apply generally to a subdivision.
In some cases however, fees may differ substantially from the above.
Contacting your servicing authorities and local council with a specific address may give you a better indication of the fees.
Bear in mind in the event titles are required prior to commencement/completion of building, (this may be achieved via a Sec. 173 agreement in some councils) council or an authority may require certain works (e.g. drainage and sewerage works, common driveways, crossovers, power pits etc.) to be completed or bonded.
The Process.
There are several stages involved with the Subdivision. They are summarised as follows:
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Apply for a planning approval for subdivision. When the permit is granted it will contain conditions which must be satisfied.
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Council also certifies the plan of subdivision, which legally approves the subdivision under the Subdivision Act 1988
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Thereafter the Applicant must meet the Permit conditions (eg installing the required services like sewer, power etc or building crossover if required under the Permit). On completion Statement of Compliance is issued.
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A registered surveyor draws up the subdivision plan which is certified by Council.
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Your conveyancer or representative can then lodge the certified Plan of Subdivision and Compliance Certificate with Land Victoria, which allows new titles to be issued for each lot created under the subdivision. Read on for More information.
When can you sell the new lot?
Technically you can sell the new lot(s) after they are registered with Land Victoria which issues the titles to each new lot created.
However, if you are not prepared to do those essential works required by the Planning Permit condition ( eg installing sewer, water, telecomms , connecting to storm water discharge point and other services to new lots, creating driveways or crossovers) a purchaser who maybe a builder could be interested in purchasing the backyard prior to each lot being registered with Land Vic and negotiate a price with you where the builder carries out the works required by the Conditions of the Permit and obtains the Certificate Of Compliance. You can then register the lots.
Or you could enter into a Section 173 Agreement with your council promising to do those essential works in future. This promise would be registered on your title so a prospective buyer will be aware of the condition.
Building the new dual Occupancy or triple occupancy home at the back.
When a parcel of land is proposed for subdivision, several steps must occur.
They include:
• A planning permit must be issued for the proposed subdivision; and
• The plan of subdivision must be certified by the relevant council; and
• The plan of subdivision must be registered by the Registrar of Titles.
The issue of a building permit relies on there being an allotment which is identified on which the building work will take place.
Fortunately, 'Allotment' is defined the Building Regulations 2006 (r 105) as 'land that can be disposed of separately under the Sale of Land Act 1962 (SLA)(s8A) without being subdivided'.
Section 8A of the SLA then sets out various categories of land that can be dealt with without being subdivided. It includes 'any land under the operation of the Transfer of Land Act 1958. This implies it is a lot on a plan of subdivision certified (or registered under the Subdivision Act 1988) and which is not the subject of a later registered plan'.
Certified plans and registered plans are defined in section 3 of the Subdivision Act 1988.
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An allotment for the purposes of the Regulations therefore includes a lot on a plan of subdivision that has been certified by a Council, even though it has not yet been registered at the Titles Office.
[also states it can be
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A certified plan is 'a plan certified by a Council for lodging in the Office of Titles for registration'.
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A registered plan includes a plan registered or approved by the Registrar of Titles.]
A building permit may be issued to build on an allotment on a plan of subdivision once the relevant council has certified the plan, even though it has not yet been registered by the Registrar of Titles.
However, all other requirements of the Building Act 1993 and the Regulations must be satisfied.
One must note that a building permit cannot be issued prior to certification of the plan of subdivision by the council.
AuArchitecture's Founder is a Registered Melbourne Planner and affiliated with the Australian Institute of Architects, Planning Institute of Australia and Victorian Planning and Environmental Law Association.
This collective synergy gives us the competitive edge over competitors, who may only be designers or town planners. The synergy will deliver significant efficiencies and advantages for your project as we manage both architecture and town planning in house.
We are a team of Registered Professionals including Building Practitioners and Architect.
Our collective experience amounts to several decades of hands on work- from designing built forms to preparing planning and building permit applications, real property development and construction.
Swarup has managed over 250 property subdivision permits and developed his own development sites.
SUBDIVISION
A certificate of title for individual allotments will not be issued until the plan of subdivision has been approved or registered by the Registrar of Titles.
The normal steps involved for a subdivision is as follows:
APPLY FOR PERMIT
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Apply to Council for Application for a Planning Permit to Subdivide
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Application may need to be advertised in local paper and advice adjoining owners
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Referred to nominated agencies (Referral Authorities)
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Referred to Technical Services, Building, Environmental Health and Strategic Planning for comment.
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Council to consider the application and Issue Planning Permit with Conditions or refuse the permit
CERTIFICATION OF PLAN
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Owner appoints a Licensed Surveyor to prepare a plan of subdivision. (2 hard Copies – Formal Plans)
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Apply for Application for Certification - Form 1 (This form advises Surveyor who this application will be referred to)
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Referred to nominated agencies that have conditions on Planning Permit
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Referred to Technical Services, Building Environmental Health and Strategic Planning for their approval. (Only if there is conditions from their department)
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A plan will be Certified when the conditions on the planning permit have been met or arrangements have been made to meet those conditions, along with any other matter set out in Section 6(1) of the Subdivision Act.
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The Certified plan to be lodged at the Titles Office.
FINAL RELEASE
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Completed the entire requirements on the planning permit – all referral authority and Council conditions have been met.
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Before a Statement of Compliance can be issued, written advice from a Licensed Surveyor must be provided to the Council in a prescribed form. This should be to the effect that the subdivision including all lots, roads, common property and reserves) has been marked out or defined.
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The Statement of Compliance to be lodge at the Titles Office for new titles to be issued.
More on Subdivision
In my KNOWLEDGE BLOG I wrote an A-Z of property development including commonly used terminology.
I should have added P for Permeability ( aka under the radar as New Garden Area introduced by the current Planning Minister which reduces building building footprint to allow for more permeable surfaces. This area depends on the land size and for the average 650sqm block it is 35% of the land, which excludes driveways or any landscaping under 1m in with.)
And S could stand for Subdivision.
What is a Subdivision?
Subdivision is the creation of one or more lots of land from a single parcel of land with each lot having its own registered title.
S is also for Strata Title in a Plan of Subdivision
C could be for that all important word Costs.
The cost to subdivide the bloc. for example you may be doing a dual occupancy and creating two blocks from one parent" block you currently own.
After the cost of construction of the new dual occ home, you should allow for Subdivision Costs. They include the cost of the new driveway to the new house, any footpaths and crossings, connections of all services like sewer, water, electricity, telecomms and so on. The length of the run of these services also matters. Then there is the cost of the Land Surveyor and fees payable to register the title.
I would suggest a number of $8000- $10,000 upwards. In a dual occupancy subdivision, chances are your new lot will be a Strata Lot.
In a brown field site for 26 lots, subdivision costs are in the range of $60,000 -$80,000 and depending on a number of factors including site slope ( more earthworks) laying out 18m wide public roads with footpaths, lighting and landscaping thereby creating Torrens Title.
A strata titled subdivision would sell for less and the public roads could be narrower driveways.
The registered land surveyor will draw up the Plan of Subdivision in accordance with identified lot boundaries. Once registered you as the owner of each lot is within your rights to dispose of your lot independent of the other lot owner(s).
T is for the types of Titles
In a typical dual occupancy or apartment/unit type of development, titles are generally Strata where each of the owners share some common property. These could be say the common parking area, common/shared driveways or easements.
Often a Strata title could mean the "air space" containing the unit!
In a Torrens Title the lot owners are independent and do not commonly share common property as the Road is now a Public road.
D could be Development Costs.
I often get asked the question how much should I budget for the actual Build. That cost varies and depends on site access, constraints, slope, location of services, finishes of materials, area of building, double or single storey, brick of weather board cladding... and the list goes on.
As a general rule you can allow approximately $1000/sqm for something basic in a single storey construction to as high as you want to go with product selection. An upmarket luxury build could set you back by $3000/sqm for a double storey dwelling.
In a typical suburban dual occ or two town house development allow $1350+ per sqm for a double storey home or around $1700 including site costs. An average 3 bedroom townhouse will cost $250,000 upwards per unit plus the Subdivision costs.
Today we costed four dwellings- each containing 3 bedrooms. The build price came to around $1,150,000. Finishes were standard and each dwelling was double storey with a garage.
In a lower cost 5 unit development ( each with 2 bedrooms and being double storey) the total cost came to about $1 million including site costs. So as you can see the cost depends on a number of factors.
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