Melbourne-Based, Australia-Focused Town Planning Consultants

Partnering with architects, developers, and councils to deliver planning outcomes that respond to place, purpose, and people.

Our Services

Town Planning Applications

We provide expert town planning advice and strategic guidance on land use, development, and site planning. Our team simplifies complex planning controls and offers clear, practical advice to help clients navigate the process efficiently and manage their projects with confidence.

Rezoning Strategy and Planning Solutions

We provide advice on planning scheme amendments to support land rezoning. Our team specialises in resolving complex planning issues through skilled negotiation and mediation. By finding common ground and encouraging constructive discussion, we help clients overcome challenges and reach practical, balanced outcomes.

Planning Outcome Advice and Strategic Insight

We provide clear, upfront advice to clients on the likely planning outcomes of their proposals. By assessing the relevant planning controls, policies, and site context, we help clients understand potential risks, opportunities, and pathways forward. This strategic insight supports informed decision-making from the earliest stages of a project to get you on track from the start of the process.

VCAT and Council Mediation Support

We assist clients through VCAT and Council planning mediations, offering strategic guidance and representation to help resolve objections and planning disputes. Our goal is to achieve practical, negotiated outcomes that avoid unnecessary delays and support project success.

About our company

Bowden Town Planning is a Melbourne based firm, providing town planning consultancy services nationally to range of stakeholders.  We are recognised within the industry for providing planning advocacy and expert evidence in VCAT hearings.  Our firm services a diverse range of clients including corporate, government agencies, and other clients with varying needs.

We specialise in assisting our clients with the development approvals’ process for all application types with the aim of achieving them optimal results, delivered through a sound understanding of the relevant Planning Provisions. At Bowden Town Planning, our clients are treated with care and respect and will always have direct access to our Director , Daniel Bowden, and Associates Tom Buchan and Tasman Jones.

  • Daniel Bowden

    Director

    Daniel has worked in both local government and private practice for more than 25 years.

    Before founding Bowden Town Planning, Daniel successfully operated several private planning practices beginning in 2002. Prior to that, he held roles at the City of Whitehorse and the City of Maribyrnong, giving him valuable insight into the workings of local government.

    Daniel has also undertaken a number of his own development projects, providing him with practical experience of the planning system—particularly the commercial realities of property development. He regularly appears as a planning advocate at VCAT and panel hearings on behalf of a diverse range of clients. His work includes project coordination, site assessment advice, and the negotiation and resolution of planning disputes.

  • Tom Buchan

    Associate

    With broad planning experience across both the private and public sectors, Tom provides expert advice and representation for our clients.

    He specialises in statutory planning and has developed a strong understanding of legislation and policy within the Victorian Planning System.

    Tom successfully manages planning applications as an advocate, representing both permit applicants and resident objectors. He has also undertaken work on behalf of municipal councils across Victoria and has appeared at VCAT in both client and Council officer capacities.

  • Tasman Jones

    Associate

    With over a decade’s experience in both local and private practice, Tasman is able to draw on his knowledge and understanding of local government processes

    Tasman has valuable experience within the Victorian planning system and is skilled in managing a broad range of application types. With a strong background in both Council and private practice, he is well equipped to coordinate planning approvals across diverse projects. Whether preparing planning applications to Council or acting as an advocate at VCAT, Tasman is a key asset in facilitating favourable development outcomes and is committed to achieving positive results for his clients.

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