NSW planning consultation has changed. What does it mean for your DA?

What changed this September?

NSW introduced a statewide Community Participation Plan on 1 September 2026, replacing more than 100 separate plans. Its purpose is to make consultation requirements more consistent. Councils retain flexibility over the methods they use to engage their communities. [1]

The government’s August announcement explained that consultation would focus more strongly on strategic planning and complex proposals, while reducing exhibition requirements for some lower-impact development types. [2]

Does your application fall under the new rules?

The department confirms that development and modification applications lodged before commencement, but still awaiting determination, retain the earlier participation requirements. For newer applications, the development type and relevant conditions matter; the change is not a blanket exemption from exhibition. [1]

Development still needs to be assessed by the consent authority, including consideration of relevant impacts. Treat a shorter consultation process as one part of the pathway, rather than an assurance that an application will be approved. [1]

Questions to take to your planner

For a family planning an extension or a landowner considering redevelopment, our practical starting point is a short project brief. Include the address, the intended works, any existing application number and what council has already told you. Ask:

• Which participation requirements apply to this proposal and lodgement date?
• Is the design ready for assessment, or are there unresolved issues to address first?
• What should we discuss with neighbours while the proposal is still being developed?

Bring the change back to your property

FIDES can help connect the planning process to your actual proposal, identify the information still needed and coordinate the next steps. Bring any advice you have previously received so it can be considered alongside the current requirements.