Melbourne's Metropolitan Planning Authority in Australia has been expanded Victoria-wide to boost planning support for regional cities and towns.

The new Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) will work on the long-term plans needed to cope with the state’s growing population, set to reach 10 million people by 2051.

The Victorian Government promised to create the VPA and expand on the metro-focused body set up under the previous planning minister.

The 2015-16 Budget included AUD2.1 million (US$1.6 million) to fund a specialist unit to work with regional councils and communities to develop plans which support development and creates jobs.

The VPA will work with councils to design new suburbs, identify new development opportunities and increase housing in regional areas.

Around Melbourne, the VPA will design new suburbs and urban renewal sites, encourage different housing options and boost affordability through consistent land supply.

Regional Development Victoria, Regional Partnerships and all regional councils will work with the VPA so planning is coordinated across government.