Hire Inter state Architect for planning permit

Hello All,

Whats your opinion of hiring interstate architect for getting planning permit? I have a property in whitehorse council in Melbourne. I have been talking to very experience architect in Adelaide who doesnt have any experience in Melbourne however he sounds very confident.

What do you guys think is it a good idea?

Thanks

 

A local architect is preferred as they:

• Can attend prelodgement meetings (unless council does Zoom
• Has familiarity with the planning scheme
• May have some rapport with the local planner
• Has local contacts builders

 

Totally disagree with the "need" or "best to" hire a local. It's a fallacy.
If that was the case we wouldn't see anything built/designed/approved by anyone other than a local.
By all means hire an Architect from interstate but team up with a planner from Vic who can support, provide advice and direction and lodge the planning application.
I have a friend (Architect) who designs houses - internationally!
We work in all Aus States, but mainly Vic, as planners - no issues at all
We've provided planning services for interstate Architects in the past - no issues/problems - some technical language differences, but it's seriously not a problem with the right people
The issue, success of the outcome is "good people". Provided the Architect is a team player, competent etc it can be done

 

Yes and no.
Probably yes for a single house on a low density block providing they are happy to read up on local policies
Maybe yes if it's for a development and they have the back up of a Melbourne based town planner who can guide them on local policies and design guidelines
Maybe no if they want to handle all of it and it's a development
Melbourne councils are a tricky beast with numerous overlays, fussy neighbours etc. You need to balance how expensive time is by not doing it in the most efficient way.