Off-Airport Planning Notifications

The Off-Airport Planning Notification process is the mechanism by which responsible authorities (typically councils) formally notify Melbourne Airport of planning permit applications that fall within the Melbourne Airport Environs Overlay (MAEO). The process supports safeguarding of Melbourne Airport’s ongoing operation by ensuring the Master Planning team can review relevant off-airport proposals and provide timely feedback.

For further information on the MAEO, refer to the Victorian Government guidance. 

In accordance with section 52(1)(c) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, notice of an application under the Melbourne Airport Environs Overlay (MAEO) to use land, subdivide land or to construct a building or construct or carry out works must be given to the airport lessee company of Melbourne Airport in accordance with the Commonwealth Airports Act 1996, unless otherwise agreed in writing between the responsible authority and the airport lessee. The notice must be accompanied by a copy of the application, existing condition and development plans.

Notification is required for planning permit applications made under the MAEO (including MAEO1 and MAEO2), unless an alternative written arrangement is in place between the responsible authority and APAM.

The notice must be accompanied by the application material, including:

• a copy of the planning permit application
• cover letter
• existing conditions (existing condition information)
• development plans (include the proposed maximum building height, if applicable; and/or subdivision plans, as relevant)
• proposed change of use plans (if applicable)
• title (for subdivisions, if applicable)
• plan of subdivision (for subdivisions, if applicable)
• approved planning permit and endorsed plans (for subdivisions, if applicable)
• any other supporting documents required for the proposal type (development, change of use or subdivision).

Melbourne Airport is transitioning from email-based notifications to an online portal (Appian) to streamline lodgement and improve document handling (particularly for large files). Lodgement options are:

• Preferred: submit via the Melbourne Airport Online Portal (Appian).
• Alternative: submit by email to [email protected] (remains available for manual/email provision of notifications).

• APAM response time: Melbourne Airport will provide a response within 14 days from the date the notification is received.
• General enquiries: [email protected]
• Other planning enquiries: For any other planning enquiries, please reach out to your relevant council or refer to the Victorian Planning Scheme for the planning provisions.

The following materials provide step-by-step guidance for councils on how to lodge an Off-Airport Planning Notification via the Melbourne Airport Online (Appian) portal, including document upload requirements and how to respond to Requests for Information (RFIs):

PDF guides

Step-by-step video

Watch the video below for a guided walkthrough on how to create an application, enter proposal details, upload documents, submit your application, and track its progress via the dashboard.