Engagement with local council and other agencies

Dairy developers should seek DA pre-lodgement advice from the local council. Councils in NSW have different processes for seeking this advice and preferred timelines on when to conduct a more formal DA pre-lodgement meeting. Applicants should contact the duty planning officer of the council as soon as the initial planning and investigations have been completed. The goal is to understand the planning and environmental approvals that may be required for the proposed site and facilities.

Before submitting the application, it is recommended to have a pre-lodgement meeting with council to discuss site and facility options, including the likely operational requirements. At this stage, the developer’s team members can request an on-site meeting with council officers and other agency representatives who will be involved in assessing the DA.

The planning consultant should prepare for the meeting by providing the council with a list of discussion points and questions. They should also attend the meeting. If possible, request that meeting notes be taken and provided to all parties.