CASBE launches new BESS ‘Subdivisions’ Module – Now in Beta

CASBE is pleased to announce the launch of the new BESS ‘Subdivisions’ module, now available in beta until June 2026. 

BESS Subdivisions supports the implementation of Version 2 of the Sustainable Subdivisions Framework (SSF), helping councils and developers assess sustainability outcomes in subdivision design across a wide range of project sizes, from small (3 lots) to very large (250+ lots) subdivisions. 

BESS Subdivisions is currently in a beta phase, which means it’s a test version made available for real-world use and feedback before its final release. During this period, we welcome applicants to try it out, explore its features, and share feedback to help refine and improve the tool. 

BESS Subdivisions provides a practical way to foster more resilient, liveable, and environmentally sustainable communities through better subdivision planning. 

CASBE maintains BESS Subdivisions on behalf of its member councils. We acknowledge and thank all CASBE member councils for their continued leadership and support in driving this important initiative forward. 

🙏 Acknowledgements 

This milestone reflects nearly a decade of work, beginning with a grant application lodged in 2016 and supported by two grants from the Victorian Government’s Collaborative Council Sustainability Fund: 

• One focused on ESD for subdivisions in regional Victoria 

• The other supporting the development of SSF Version 1 and supporting materials 

We gratefully acknowledge: 

• Wodonga Council for leading both grant projects and partnering with CASBE to initiate the SSF trial 

• The eight councils involved in the regional ESD project and the 16 councils who helped develop SSF Version 1 

• The 31 councils who participated in the 24-month SSF trial 

• AECOM for leading the initial work on ESD for subdivisions in regional Victoria. 

• HIP V. HYPE and Spiire for developing SSF Version 1 and support materials 

• Mesh Planning and LID Consulting for developing SSF Version 2 

• DEPT and RubyFish for designing and building the BESS ‘Subdivisions’ module 

• The shared service SSF Advisors, who were engaged following the 24-month trial to provide expert support and guidance. 

• The CASBE Steering Committee, SSF Governance Board, SSF Technical Reference Panel, SSF Working Group, and CASBE and BESS teams for their leadership, oversight, collaboration, and delivery.