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Your Local Town & Regional Planning In Armstrong Creek

  • Dedicated Staff
  • Expert Advice
  • High Quality Service
  • Professional Service
  • Team Of Experts
General Info

CJH Town Planning are experts in Statutory Town Planning, Planning Permits, Advocacy and VCAT.

CJH Town Planning is an independent consultancy led by Cameron Hayes, a seasoned town planner with 18 years’ experience. Based in the Surf Coast region, including Torquay and Geelong, Cameron supports clients across regional Victoria—from Ballarat and Bendigo to Colac Otway, Bass Coast and East Gippsland. Services include planning permit applications, VCAT representation, rezoning, subdivision planning, and strategic advice. Known for his practical, people-first approach, Cameron simplifies complex planning matters with clear and actionable guidance.

Based in the Greater Geelong and Surf Coast region, Cameron works with clients throughout rural and regional Victoria—offering expert support wherever it’s needed, from West Wimmera Shire up to Moira, Glenelg, Bass Coast all the way to East Gippsland Shire. Cameron brings a practical, people-focused approach to town planning. He’s successfully managed a broad range of projects, including complex planning applications and matters before VCAT, and is known for turning technical detail into clear, actionable advice.

At CJH Town Planning, every client receives a tailored service—grounded in professional insight, open communication, and a genuine commitment to positive planning outcomes. Cameron values collaboration with all councils and shires and brings a strong understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities across regional Victoria. No matter where you’re based, CJH Town Planning is here to help you navigate the process with clarity, confidence, and care.

Planning Permit ApplicationsResidential, commercial, rural Subdivisions, developments, change of use Application prep, documentation, negotiations Strategic And Rural PlanningAdvocacy for Council Led Rezoning Proposals Assistance with responding to Council Strategic Planning Proposals such as Structure Plans, Growth Plans or Rezoning Proposals Rural land subdivision and consolidation Expert reports and submissions VCAT RepresentationObjection disputes, permit refusals, planning scheme disputes Clear advice and experienced representation Full case management

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Ownership
Locally Owned
Service Notes
Open Monday To Friday
Free Estimates
Yes
Category
Keywords
Advocacy, Application Preparation, Case Management, Council Rezoning, Expert Report, Growth Area Plans, Objections, Permit Refusal, Planning Application Preparation, Planning Permits, Planning Scheme Disputes, Regional Planning Armstrong Creek, Rezoning Proposals, Rural Land Consolidation, Rural Land Subdivision, Rural Land Subdivisions, Rural Planning, Rural Planning Armstrong Creek, Statutory Town Planning, Strategic Planning, Strategic projects, Structure Planning, Town Planning, Town Planning Armstrong Creek, Town Planning Expert, Town Planning Geelong, Town Planning Torquay, VCAT Representation
FAQschevron down

Why should I hire a planner?

A private planner’s role is to assist to ensure what is proposed has the best chance of success. Whilst the planning system in Victoria allows for people to run their own planning processes, understanding what is involved, what is required to be submitted and how to navigate the system is not Council responsibility, Councils role is to process applications in accordance with the Planning and Environment Act 1987.


Which areas do you service?

CJH Town Planning is a Victorian regional planning consultancy, we service the whole of non-metro Victoria, across all of the Barwon South West, Grampians, Hume, Lodden Mallee and Gippsland. CJH Town Planning really is your regional Victorian planning expert.


How much does it cost to hire a planner?

Depending on the service required, time spent, and the proposal all impact the cost, traditionally planning is charge at either a fixed fee arrangement or at hourly rates. CJH Town Planning is happy to provide detailed obligation free fee proposal which detail out the services to be provided as well as explaining all the steps along the way to ensure your proposal can be successful.


How long does a permit take?

Planning Permits can be anywhere from 10 Days (VicSmart) up to 12 Months depending on the application, Council, issues, referral authorities, objections or the like. High quality applications have the best chance of getting through Council without complications.


What’s the difference between planning and building permits?

The primary difference between planning and building permits is Planning is looking at the design, character, local context and applicable controls. Building Permits are looking at the physical structure of what is proposed.


When do I need a planning permit for this?

What triggers a Planning Permits is very site specific, for example a planning permit is required in the farming zone if your site is below the minimum lot size set by your Local Council, if your site has a Neighbourhood Character Overlay a planning permit is usually required for any buildings and works.


What if a neighbour has objected?

Within the Victorian Planning System, it is not uncommon for neighbours to object to a proposal, however depending on what the neighbour has objected about is what is important. In most instance an objection can be worked through. But there is instance where they cannot be, this does not mean your proposal ends, this just means there may be some extra steps. A good response to assist Council is critical to ensure Council has strong justification to assist in their decision.


Can I appeal a refused permit?

Yes, in most instances you can appeal a permit that has been refused by Council, however time limits apply, it is recommended you reach out as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss the opportunity to appeal the decision.