Community Participation Plan

The Community Participation Plan explains how the NSW Government and Council involve the community in planning decisions that affect our region.

This includes decisions about development applications, planning proposals, changes to planning controls and contributions plans. The plan sets out when and how the community may have a say before the NSW Government or Council makes planning decisions.

The NSW Government introduced a statewide Community Participation Plan, which applies from 1 September 2026. The plan sets requirements for how councils across NSW notify communities about planning matters and provide opportunities for public feedback.

Key changes include:

• All councils in NSW must follow the new statewide plan from 1 September 2026
• The changes aim to make community participation requirements consistent across NSW
• Certain development applications will no longer require public notification or exhibition

From 1 September 2026, Council is required to use the statewide Community Participation Plan under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

This means that:

• The statewide plan replaces Council’s Community Participation Plan
• Some development types listed in the statewide plan no longer require public exhibition, unless the proposal seeks changes to building height or floor space ratio standards through a planning variation

More information and frequently asked questions are available on the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure website.