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Approval processes for buildings differ nationally. The following table briefly outlines the types of planning and construction approvals required for simple projects in each state and territory. This list is not exhaustive and is intended to help direct you to the correct authority with the correct terminology. Note that a project may require different or additional approvals from those noted – it is best to consult with the relevant local authority.
| State/ Territory | Typical planning approval pathway | Alternative planning approval pathway (residential works on simple sites) | Typical construction approval requirement |
| ACT | Apply for a Development Application through the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) E-development portal Or Apply for a Works Approval through the National Capital Authority (NCA) (for works on the lakes edges and in the governmental triangle) |
For some houses and projects, development approval may not be required if certain requirements are met. Exemptions are defined in the Planning and Development Regulation 2008 | Apply for a Building Approval from a licensed building surveyor (also known as building certifier) |
| NSW | Apply for a Development Application from the local council through the NSW Planning Portal | Apply for a Complying Development Certificate from a Principal Certifiying Authority | Apply for a Construction Certificate¹ from a Principal Certifiying Authority |
| NT | Apply for a Development Application from the NT government through the Development Applications Online website | N/A | Apply for a Building Permit from a private certifier |
| Qld | Apply for a Development Application from the local government authority | N/A | Apply for a Building Development Approval (or Building Permit) from local government or a private building certifier |
| SA | Apply for a Development Application through the SA Planning Portal | N/A | Apply for Building Rules Consent from a private certifier or local council building surveyor |
| Tas | Apply for a Planning Permit from the local council | Certain building work does not require consent from Council; for which a ‘no planning approval required’ (NPAR) certificate may be issued by a planning consultant | Apply for a Certificate of Likely Compliance from a building surveyor and then apply for a Building Permit from the local council or licensed building surveyor |
| Vic | Apply for a Planning Permit from the local council. Certain types of planning applications can be applied for under the expedited VicSmart scheme. | Meet the requirements of Rescode² | Apply for a Building Permit from a private or municipal (council) building surveyor |
| WA | Apply for a Development Application from the local council | N/A | Apply for a Certificate of Design Compliance from a building surveyor and then apply for a Building Permit from the local council |
Notes to table:
1 A Complying Development Certificate acts as a Construction Certificate
2 Rescode will be assessed as part of the Building Permit
Further resource:
For information on the NSW Design and Building Practitioners (DBP) Act and Regulations, please refer to our dedicated Institute page.
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