Olive Urban
Providing comprehensive future focussed planning solutions for individuals, developers and local councils throughout Victoria.
About
At Olive Urban, we deliver future focused planning solutions built for longevity. Like the olive tree, an enduring symbol of resilience and thoughtful cultivation, we are committed to achieving outcome driven results for our clients.
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We blend this natural strength with deep expertise in the dynamic urban landscape, navigating strategic and statutory planning processes with government authorities to secure lasting, positive outcomes.
When you choose Olive Urban, you are not just engaging experts—you are gaining dedicated partners who put your vision first.
Services
Our comprehensive range of services includes urban planning, development consulting, project management, data analytics and stakeholder engagement tailored to suit your specific project requirements.
Urban Planning
Our consulting services offer expert guidance to help you make informed decisions and achieve your desired planning outcomes. We provide insights and strategies to optimise your development potential by providing:
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managing planning applications
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representation for planning appeals in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal
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pre purchase assessments to ensure you are informed on potential planning constraints or opportunities before you invest
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preparation of Report and Consent applications with Local Council against Part 5 (Siting)
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extensive experience in the Building Appeals Board.
Strategic Planning
We cover all aspects of planning at a higher policy level, guiding long-term development frameworks.
Enhancing decision-making with quantitative insights.
Ensure developments and strategies have public support and meet community expectations.
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Project Management
Our project management services focus on providing strategic advice, due diligence, red flag assessments to navigate complex urban development challenges to enable clients to make sound decisions and bring projects to fruition.
Local Government Services & Support
Planning
Interim role coverage
VCAT services
Project delivery
Training
Tailored training programs designed to build planning capability across teams and organisations to navigate the complexities and legislative changes
Mentoring
Individual and team-based coaching, supporting professionals to strengthen collaboration, improve project delivery, and align best practice
Our Philosophy
At Olive Urban, our approach is rooted in the enduring symbolism of the olive tree - representing longevity, resilience, and thoughtful cultivation. These values guide everything we do.
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We believe that successful urban development requires more than technical expertise, it demands foresight, adaptability and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of communities.
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Our strength lies in navigating the dynamic urban landscape where challenges are multifaceted and progress is constant.
We work with clarity and care, crafting planning solutions that grow with the city, respect its character and serve generations to come.
Our People
I’m an urban planner by profession and by perspective—it's how I understand cities, communities and the potential of thoughtful planning to shape meaningful places. Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked across private consulting and all levels of government, contributing to projects that span strategic and statutory planning, master plans, heritage, active transport and community engagement.
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My approach is grounded in collaboration, with a focus on creating places that are inclusive, connected and sustainable. I’ve had the privilege of leading multidisciplinary teams, including at various Council's, where we worked together to shape the city’s future with care and purpose.
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What drives me is the opportunity to bring people together—to bridge disciplines, navigate complexity and help turn vision into reality. I’m grateful for the trust colleagues and clients place in me and remain committed to planning that makes a lasting, positive impact.
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Steven Lionakis
Managing Director
