Abstract: This paper addresses the theme of ‘City Structure’ by describing the visible changes in streetscapes that have directly resulted from the implementation of heritage planning policies in inner Melbourne. The argument is that the heritage studies of Victoria greatly influence the urban form and streetscape outcomes of development applications processed in inner Melbourne. The development of the heritage studies in Victoria is discussed with the statutory outcomes and policies that are generally applicable statewide. The methodological and analytical framework used for the work that led to this paper is similar to that used in the heritage studies: a desktop survey, a field photographic survey, a comparative analysis of previous work and historical research to inform the assessment. The material used includes publicly available local council planning data, historical mapping material, historical land data and a comparative historical streetscape survey to assist in analysing the changes in built form that have resulted from the progression of heritage planning policies from the 1970s to today. As a result, lessons can be learned about the effectiveness of heritage planning policies and how particular changes have improved the intended outcomes of these policies in their actual implementation through development applications. Observations for the improvement of future policy making are made with reference to a cooperative approach between local planning authorities, the public and consultancies. The contribution this paper makes to an understanding of Australian cities is in how policy making influences the development of urban form and urban design at the ‘grass roots’ level.