Statewide Community Participation Plan

Overview

What’s this about?

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is proposing changes to the community participation process as part of landmark reforms to make the planning system faster, fairer and more outcomes focused.

Currently, there are more than 100 different community participation plans across NSW, creating uncertainty for communities about how they engage in planning decisions.

We’re replacing these with a single statewide plan, ensuring consultation requirements are clear and consistent and everyone has an equal opportunity to shape the communities where they live and work.

Importantly, the proposed approach does not limit councils from implementing tailored engagement strategies within their communities where they may be required. Rather, it sets a baseline of consultation requirements on planning matters that must be met that gives everyone in the state an equal say, no matter where they live.

Some of the key changes we’re proposing include: 

• Extending minimum consultation timeframes on state-level strategic planning initiatives like Region Plans and the State Plan from 45 days to 60 days.
• Standardising the process for notification of Complying Development and giving neighbours 7 days’ notice before any works begin.
• Standardising and reducing the number of local development application types that need to be exhibited by councils to those with the highest impact.

Have your say

Have your say by5pm Wednesday 3 June 2026.

There are 2 ways to provide feedback.