Who We Are

JLP is a consulting firm based in Melbourne offering statutory and strategic planning services for both private and public clients. Founded in 2001 by town planner James Livingston, the firm provides creative and innovative solutions to help clients navigate each step of the Victorian Planning System.

Our services span from feasibility assessments, planning permit applications and objections, as well as VCAT advocacy, planning scheme amendments and strategic planning reviews.

Our Team

James Livingston

Principal

James Livingston started his private practice in 2001. James is a town planner with more than 30 years of experience in Council and private firms including City of Yarra, City of Port Philip, Knox City Council, City of Collingwood, City of Fitzroy, Perrott Lyon Mathieson, and ERM.

Maria Lasso

Town Planner

BEc. M. Urban Planning (University of Melbourne)

Ally Dickinson

Town Planner

B. Urban and Regional Planning (Hons) (RMIT)

Oliver Conlan

Town Planner

B. Env. M. Urban Planning (University of Melbourne)

Olga Lowe

Administrative Assistant

What We Do

VCAT Advocacy

Our team has extensive experience in VCAT appeals, mediations, compulsory conferences and planning panels. We approach VCAT pragmatically, keeping our clients well informed of the risks, opportunities and pitfalls of appeals process, all with the goal of achieving positive outcomes for our clients.

Planning Permit Applications

We’ve assisted and obtained planning permits for more than 1000 residential, commercial, entertainment and industrial projects of different sizes in Melbourne and regional Victoria. We provide a wide range of services and products including:

  • Pre-application advice.
  • Preliminary discussion with responsible authorities.
  • Planning reports supporting applications.
  • Lodgement of applications.
  • Activities following lodgement.

Property Development Advice

JLP develops thorough research analysis to understand and highlight the opportunities and constrains of specific sites. JLP’s experience in the Victorian Planning System results in quality advice to achieve appropriate development and land uses. Property development services include the initial assessment of the site, preliminary discussion with local authorities and due diligence written reports.

Planning Scheme Amendments

JLP offers the assistance with strategic planning processes, including:

  • Planning policy for local authorities (e.g. policy guidelines, strategic plans)
  • Planning Scheme amendments (e.g. rezoning of land)
  • Land Use Reviews
  • Master Planning (including regional Victoria)

Planning Permit Objections

We can guide and represent private people who received notice of a planning permit application and want to understand the impacts on their property, and want to pursue an objection to the proposal. Our services include:

  • Providing advice to possible objectors.
  • Developing comprehensive objection statements.
  • Attending consultation meetings on behalf of objectors.
  • Providing for realistic outcomes.

To learn more about how we can help, get in touch below.

Say Hello

Need to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you!

You can email us via admin@jlp.melbourne with the form below.

Or call us directly on +61 400 318 121.

Our office is located at 210/838 Collins St, Docklands VIC 3008 (consultation by appointment only).

Standard business hours are 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Email Enquiry