The SDAPP Program refers to the consistent inclusion of key environmental performance considerations into the planning permit approvals process in order to achieve more sustainable outcomes for the long-term benefit of the wider community.
About SDAPP
Local governments have identified a clear need to improve outcomes in environmentally sustainable design (ESD) through their planning processes. A core group of councils has been working to improve planning processes that deliver environmental sustainability outcomes. This group of councils is called the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE) and have developed a broad program called 'Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process' (SDAPP). Find out more on our About SDAPP page.
SDAPP Roll-out Project
In partnership with the Moreland City Council, MEFL is working with 16 local councils improve outcomes in environmentally sustainable design assessment as part of the planning process. The 18 month project is funded through the Victorian Local Sustainability Accord. Find out more on our Roll-out Project page.
CASBE
The Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE) is a collection of Victorian municipal governments committed to the creation of a more sustainable built environment both within and beyond their municipalities. Find out more on our CASBE page.
SDAPP Councils
There are a large number of metropolitan municipalities who have either adopted or are in the process of adopting the SDAPP program. These include pioneer councils that have been using the program and tools since 2005 right through to the increasing number of councils currently piloting or investigating the program in view of adoption into their planning processes. Find out more on our SDAPP Councils page.
SDAPP Implementation
As part of the SDAPP Rollout Project, the project team has developed an SDAPP Implementation Plan tailored to each council type in order to ensure that the benefits of the program are available to growth area, peri-urban, regional and rural councils as well as inner-city and middle ring metropolitan councils. Whilst there are many aspects that will be the same or similar, others will be tailored to the specific development context.
Professional Development
There are a number of professional development modules available for councils and applicants who are participants in the SDAPP program. This includes an introductory session for council officers on the fundamentals of the SDAPP program and training for council officers and the development industry in the STEPS and SDS assessment tools. Find out more on our Professional Development page.
Industry Feedback
The success of the SDAPP program relies on positive engagement with the development industry. This page has been set up to allow feedback on the SDAPP program itself and to log any issues or comments relating to the STEPS and SDS tools. Find out more on our Industry Feedback page.
Resources
Building on a number of existing resources the SDAPP Rollout project team have developed a number of resources, templates and examples to assist councils with the implementation and continual improvement of the program. Find out more on our Resources page.
Contacts
The project team and CASBE coordinator are available to assist you with your SDAPP query. Find out more on our Contacts page.
