Journeys/Melbourne Journey

Granny Flat / Dependent Person's Unit in Melbourne

Melbourne granny flats sit under Victoria's Dependent Person's Unit (DPU) and Secondary Dwelling regulations - more restrictive than SA's 2023 rules. Every granny flat needs a planning permit, must fit Rescode setbacks, and often requires a family relationship for the fast-track pathway. Here is the honest process.

Typical cost

$180K - $420K

1-2 bed granny flat, prepared site, includes services

Typical timeline

8 - 14 months

design to move-in

Join the Victoria waitlist Granny flat builders Melbourne

Melbourne granny flat behind a family home

What this means in practice

Blocks over 500m² without Heritage Overlay

This journey suits you if

Blocks over 500m² without Heritage Overlay
Multi-generational families
Owners needing aging-parent solution or teen wing

What goes wrong most

Heritage overlays block DPUs entirely in some inner suburbs
Rescode site coverage / garden area limits fit on small blocks
Separate services connection ($15k-$40k)

How it actually unfolds

The steps that move the needle. We sit beside you on each one.

1
Overlay + Rescode check on VicPlan
Confirm block is over 500m², not Heritage Overlay, and Rescode setbacks + garden area allow a DPU footprint.
2
Choose DPU or Secondary Dwelling classification
DPU = dependent family only, faster permit. Secondary Dwelling = rentable, slower + stricter permit. Pick early - re-classification later needs a new permit.
3
Design + planning permit application
Melbourne DPU planning permit typically 6-14 weeks. Heritage overlay or Yarra/Stonnington/Bayside councils: 3-6 months.
4
Building permit + services connection
Separate power meter, water tie-in, sewer connection. Standard piered footings on Melbourne reactive clay adds $8k-$18k.
5
Construction + Occupancy Permit
5-9 months on-site typically. Detached DPU faster than an integrated addition.