The creation of a subdivision is the creation of a community. It commences with a relatively blank canvas, setting up the life of the community that will extend over hundreds of years. The initial subdivision design presents an enormous opportunity to get the fundamentals right.
The long-term nature of subdivision planning is set against the backdrop of our climate fundamentally changing. By 2070, for example, temperature increases of between 1.5 and 3 degrees are expected. It is therefore critical to take a long-term view and consider the impact of climate change over the entire life of the subdivision.
Sustainable subdivisions are carefully planned to achieve improved quality of life, protect and use resources efficiently and improve the health of the environment and people. Crucially, sustainability needs to be embedded from the beginning of the subdivision process.
The Sustainable Subdivisions Framework (SSF) is a framework that seeks to provide statutory planners with a basis for measuring and achieving stronger sustainability outcomes in residential subdivisions, while also providing information on how sustainability interventions can be integrated into residential subdivisions.
The SSF identifies seven categories that can assist in creating sustainable subdivisions:
For more information of each category, please visit: Sustainable Design Fact Sheets.
The Sustainable Subdivisions Framework (SSF) is supported by a number of resources.
These sample plans visually communicate information requirements for submission to council.
2017: Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) for subdivisions in regional Victoria research project undertaken by eight councils. (CASBE was not a formal project partner) .
2019: SSF co-developed by 16 partner councils, VPA, and CASBE to enhance long-term community benefits in subdivisions.
Oct 2020 – Oct 2022
• Phase 1 Trial: 31 councils participated in a 24-month voluntary trial.
• Interim reports released at 6 and 12 months; final report at 24 months.
• Key barriers identified: limited council resourcing, time demands, and voluntary nature.
• Funding for shared services SSF Advisors obtained to support capacity building.
• Final report recommended a comprehensive review of the SSF.
Post Oct 2022
• Phase 2 Trial commenced with 21 councils, supported by dedicated human resources.
• Shared services SSF Advisor roles commenced.
2023-2024
• Comprehensive review conducted via the SSF – Next Steps Project.
• Recommendation to develop an online digital tool.
2024-2025: Development of the BESS ‘Subdivisions’ module.
BESS Subdivisions is now available in beta until June 2026. This new online tool translates Version 2 of the Sustainable Subdivisions Framework (SSF) into a practical, digital format, making it easier for councils and developers to assess sustainability outcomes in subdivision design.
Designed for projects ranging from small (3 lots) to very large (250+ lots), the module helps embed sustainability into subdivision planning, supporting the creation of more resilient, liveable communities.
The module is in a testing phase, which means it’s available for use while we continue to refine and improve it. During this period, it is free of charge for all Victorian councils, and we invite users to try it out and share feedback to help shape the final version ahead of its full release in mid-2026.
CASBE maintains the BESS ‘Subdivisions’ module on behalf of its member councils, with thanks for their continued leadership and support.