A discussion paper New Residential Zones for Victoria released by the State Government this month reveals three zones: limited change or 'no-go' areas, incremental change or 'slow-go' and significant change or 'go-go'.

Go-go zones would promote "a significant increase" in new dwellings and greater housing diversity.

Slow-go zones would respect existing neighbourhood character with a moderate increase in new dwellings.

No-go zones would limit the increase of new dwellings and protect specific neighbourhood characteristics.

Bob Birrell, director of Monash University's Centre for Population and Urban Research, said the impact of the new zones depended on the scale and location of the 'go-go' residential areas.

"It could have major implications for local councils, but it's too early to make judgements."

Wheelers Hill Action Group spokesman David Dickens, who was part of a fight against a nine-storey development on The Peak site, agreed the changes could lead to high-rise, high-density development in the suburbs. "Given the contempt the Government has shown for residents' wishes in relation to the impact of Melbourne 2030, I find it hard to believe that the new residential zones will benefit residents."

Planning Minister Justin Madden said an advisory committee would review the draft zones and submissions after public consultation.

A Monash Council spokeswoman declined to comment. The discussion paper and details of the information sessions can be found at www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning