STEP 1: Feasibility Study: This is usually done first, to determine if the proposed development would be supported by the relevant local authority (council).
This typically requires the services of a town planner and perhaps meetings with council to discuss achieving acceptable outcomes.
STEP 2: Contour Detail Plan: If the development is feasible then a contour detail plan is prepared in consultation with an engineer.
his plan compiles information regarding levels, existing structures, vegetation and services, and is used to determine a new lot layout and the location of new services.
STEP 3: Proposal Plan: A Proposal Plan, showing the proposed new layout, is drawn up by a town planner and submitted to council for approval in the form of a Development Application (DA).
Pre-lodgment meetings may be needed to resolve servicing issues.
STEP 4: DA Approved: Once the DA is approved, the council usually imposes conditions and fees that need to be paid.
A negotiated decision notice may be required if some of the proposals are not supported at first.
STEP 5: Operational works: The works, including earthworks and laying of new services, can now begin, as long as they comply with all conditions imposed in the approval.
New boundaries are marked and a formal plan is prepared and submitted to the Department of Natural Resources, Mines & Energy for examination.
Step 6: Plan Sealing Application: The approved plan is then submitted to the relevant council. Once all the conditions of the DA have been met, the plan is then sealed.
As part of this “plan sealing application”, the applicant is required to demonstrate how the development has been completed/constructed in accordance with all conditions of the relevant reconfiguring a lot or material change of use approval.
Step 7: Survey Plan Signed: If the local Council is satisfied that the conditions have been complied with, they will sign the back of the Survey Plan.
Step 8: Survey Plan Submitted: The applicant must then submit the Survey Plan and all relevant legal documents to the Titles Office for registration within six (6) months of the Survey Plan being sealed by Council.
Once the Survey Plan is registered, new titles are created and the units/lots can be settled.
