NSW Planning Laws: Debunking Common Development Myths
In the fast-paced world of planning and development, misinformation is everywhere, especially when it comes to what needs approval, what’s permitted, and how NSW planning laws actually work. Common misunderstandings often lead to costly mistakes, delays, and compliance headaches. That’s why these Planning Myth-Busting series were created: a straightforward guide designed to separate fact from […]
Understanding NSW’s Updated Crown Development Application Provisions
In May 2025, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure released Planning Circular PS 25-002, updating the framework for Crown development application processes in NSW under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). This circular replaces the previous Circular D6 and provides guidance for councils, applicants, and practitioners on the provisions applicable […]
Case Study: Battery Recycling Facility Project – Major Coordination Experts
Battery recycling has become essential to managing Australia’s growing stockpile of electronic and energy waste. In regions like Port Stephens, planning and building safe battery recovery infrastructure is a complex but vital task. This case study explores the delivery of a battery recycling project—a processing and resource recovery facility in Heatherbrae, NSW—designed to support the […]
NSW 2025–26 Budget: What It Means for Planning Professionals and the Industry
The newly released NSW Budget 2025 signals a continued push to deliver more, faster, and with better-resourced planning systems to support them. Here is Meliora’s snapshot: Planning System Reforms & Funding $253.7 million investment to bolster the State’s planning system, including assessing more development applications and delivering additional State-led rezonings. $20.4 million allocated to improve […]
How Can You Choose the Right SEARS for Your Project?
Navigating the environmental planning process in New South Wales can feel like a maze.. Understanding the difference between iSEARS and project-specific SEARS is essential for any proponent preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). While both serve the same legislative purpose under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, their application, timeframe, and level of detail […]
Case Study: Supporting a Primary Producer in NSW Through Relocation & Resilience
The Market Garden Relocation – North Richmond project centres on a family-run farm, a primary producer in NSW, forced to make critical changes due to worsening flood risks. Operating for years in Freemans Reach, the herb and leafy greens operation had been struck repeatedly by Hawkesbury River flooding. Each inundation damaged crops, equipment, and infrastructure, […]
Rezoning Applications – What to Expect
Rezoning applications are an essential part of the urban development process. Knowing what to expect during the process can significantly impact the success of your application. This article will guide you through the ins and outs of rezoning applications in New South Wales, helping you navigate the process with confidence. What are rezoning applications, […]
What Does a Town Planner Do?
A town planner—also known as an urban planner or statutory planner—plays a critical role in shaping how land is used and developed. They ensure that development aligns with planning laws, environmental considerations, and the needs of the community. What exactly does a town planner do day to day? Town planners are responsible for balancing development […]
Important Update for Developers in the Hunter Region
Hunter Water has announced that from 1 July 2025, developer charges will increase from 25% to 50% as part of the NSW Government’s four-year phased reintroduction of full developer servicing charges.This increase will apply to:– Existing applications not completed by 30 June 2025, and– All new applications lodged from 1 July 2025 onward. If you’re […]
RECENT INDUSTRY UPDATES
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will be making minor changes to the NSW Planning Portal development application form. Starting May 30, 2025, the application form will undergo minor changes aimed at simplifying the submission process. If your application is currently ‘In Progress’ and not yet submitted to a council for assessment, please note […]
