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Frequently asked questions about the NSW Planning Portal

Who would use the NSW Planning Portal?+

Customers that want to submit a planning application with Council will need to use the NSW Planning Portal.

What is the NSW Planning Portal?+

The NSW Planning Portal is a New South Wales Government initiative. It provides a public online platform for digital planning services.  The platform allows customers to submit certain planning applications through the portal. From 1 July 2021, you must submit these applications online:

Can't Council accept my application?+

No, you can only submit the planning applications listed on this page via the NSW Planning Portal from 1 July 2021. This was a mandate set by the NSW Government.

How do I submit an application on the NSW Planning Portal?+

You need to submit all applications outlined on this page via the NSW Planning Portal. If you need help navigating the service, contact the NSW Planning Portal support team:

If you need access to a computer to submit your application, you can visit a Service NSW centre (Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma).

You can also access a computer at our libraries in Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma.

Our main administration building will not accept applications.

What happens if I don't have an email address or access to a computer, or I don't want to submit my application online?+

If you can't submit your application online, you'll need to engage a planning consultant to act on your behalf. You can find a local planning consultant online or in the Yellow Pages.

Can I still speak with the Development Help Desk about my proposed development?+

Yes, our Development Help Desk continues to operate and answer any questions you have about your development.

You can contact the Development Help Desk with your pre-lodgement enquiry by phone, email, or in person:

Once you are ready to submit your application, you'll need to do so via the NSW Planning Portal.

Who will assess my application?+

Our planners assess the applications. You can contact our planners by phone or email:

We will communicate all major milestones affecting applications via the Planning Portal.

I submitted an application with Council before 1 July 2021. How will it progress?+

Council will assess all applications submitted before 1 July 2021 outside of the Planning Portal.

The changes that occurred on 1 July 2021 apply to all applications submitted from this date.

Why has the NSW Government implemented the Planning Portal?+

The NSW Government implemented the Planning Portal to create a digital space where community, industry and government can work together to better understand and meet their obligations under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

The portal hosts a range of digital planning services, mapping tools and reporting tools to assist everyone involved in a proposed development.

Who can help me to submit my application on the NSW Planning Portal?+

If you need help to submit your application on the NSW Planning Portal, you can contact the support team on: