What Is a Development Application?
A development application (DA) is a formal request submitted to a local council or planning authority seeking approval for proposed development work. This can include new buildings, significant alterations or additions, changes of land use, or subdivision of land. A DA is a planning approval — it assesses whether the proposed work is appropriate for the site and neighbourhood — and is separate from a building permit, which assesses compliance with building codes.
When You Need a DA
Not all building work requires a DA. Most states have categories of work that are exempt from the DA process or qualify for a faster-track approval (such as complying development in NSW). Generally, you will need a DA for:
- New dwellings and major extensions
- Multi-storey buildings and dual occupancies
- Commercial or industrial developments
- Changes of use (e.g., converting a house to a business)
- Work that may affect heritage items, flood zones, or bushfire-prone land
- Tree removal in some council areas
The DA process typically involves submitting architectural plans, a Statement of Environmental Effects, and supporting reports (e.g., stormwater management, traffic studies). Neighbours may be notified and given the opportunity to make submissions.
State Variations
| State/Territory | Planning Framework | Typical DA Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| QLD | Planning Act 2016 | 20–40 business days |
| NSW | Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 | 40–60 days |
| VIC | Planning and Environment Act 1987 | 60 statutory days |
| WA | Planning and Development Act 2005 | 60–90 days |
| SA | Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 | 20–40 business days |
How It Relates to Licence Verification
While a DA is a planning approval (not a licensing matter), the builder who carries out the approved work must hold a current licence. A DA approval does not check the builder’s credentials — that responsibility falls to you. Use TradieVerify to verify your builder’s licence before they start work on any DA-approved project to ensure they are legally authorised to carry out the construction.