Strategic Planning That Works
Universal Planning provides trusted town planning consultants in Melbourne. We are a respected consultancy established in July 2013. We specialise in development planning and town planning advice.
We support developers, investors, property owners, councils, and government clients. Our advice is direct, practical, and outcome-focused. We help clients move complex projects forward.
Stephen O’Brien founded Universal Planning after decades in planning. He brings over 40 years of real-world experience. His background covers urban planning, regional planning, and development advisory roles.
He has worked across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. He also held senior roles in major development organisations. This experience gives clients confident strategic guidance.
Submit your enquiry today. Start your project with clearer direction.
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40+ Years Experience
Stephen earned his Bachelor of Regional and Town Planning in 1986. He later completed a Bachelor of Economics in 1995. This combination supports balanced planning and commercial advice.
His planning experience includes government, private, and international roles. He has worked with major development groups and public authorities. He has also guided master planned communities overseas.
Universal Planning uses this depth on every project. We assess planning risk early. We identify practical pathways to approval.
Explore our About page for more background. Read more about our team for Stephen’s experience.
40+ Years Experience
Deep planning and development knowledge.
International Expertise
Experience across major global markets.
Council Insight
Strong understanding of local government processes.
Hands-On Control
Direct project guidance from start to finish.
Town Planning Services Melbourne
Our town planning services in Melbourne cover many project types. We assist with residential, commercial, and industrial developments. We also manage complex planning controls.
Our network includes architects, surveyors, arborists, designers, and engineers. This helps resolve issues before they delay approval. It also supports stronger design and planning outcomes.
Planning Permits
Complete applications and council submissions.
Subdivision Permits
Support for complex titling developments.
Site Appraisals
Risk reviews before property purchase.
VCAT Representation
Prepared advocacy for hearings and mediations.
Expert VCAT Representation
Universal Planning is frequently appointed for VCAT advocacy. We represent councils, private clients, and listed companies. We also appear at Planning Panels Victoria.
Our experience covers appeals, mediations, and expert witness work. We prepare carefully and negotiate strongly. We focus on practical outcomes that meet planning controls.
We know successful planning requires more than paperwork. It needs judgement, evidence, and strong communication.
Call now to discuss your appeal or planning issue.
Planning Permit Support
We help clients obtain planning permits across Victoria. Our work covers housing, commercial projects, industrial sites, and mixed-use developments. We prepare clear reports and detailed submissions.
We understand Victorian planning schemes and environmental controls. We also understand what councils need to see. This helps translate your vision into a practical approval pathway.
Book a planning discussion today. Let’s move your development forward.
Discuss Your Development Plans Today
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