In Victoria, both architectural designers/draftspersons and architects produce design and construction documentation. An experienced building designer and architectural draftsperson like Andrew Novak (25+ years experience) specializes in practical, buildable, cost-effective residential and commercial working drawings that meet Victorian building regulations, Australian Standards (BCA/NCC), and council requirements, often delivering equal or superior technical clarity at more accessible fee structures.

Yes. Most structural alterations, new residential homes, multi-unit developments, major extensions, and commercial fitouts in Victoria require a formal Building Permit issued by a registered private or municipal building surveyor. To obtain a permit, you need detailed architectural working drawings including existing conditions, site plans, floor plans, elevations, building cross-sections, and construction specifications.

A typical residential concept and working drawing package takes approximately 4 to 8 weeks depending on project scale, complexity, and client feedback turnaround. If your project also requires a Town Planning Permit from your local municipal council (e.g. Merri-bek, Whittlesea, Darebin, Moonee Valley), the council statutory review process may take an additional 3 to 6 months.

Yes. StarsDesign prepares complete Town Planning application packages (including Clause 54/55 ResCode assessments, shadow diagrams, and site analysis) and directly coordinates with private building surveyors, structural engineers, energy raters, and land surveyors to ensure your documentation meets all statutory criteria.