Georges River Council has endorsed a submission to the NSW Government's draft Community Participation Plan (CPP). This submission wants clearer communication. It also seeks more community involvement in local planning decisions.
The draft CPP comes from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). It suggests a uniform way for communities to consult on planning issues across the state. Council is in favour of clear, minimum standards across NSW. Still, it has concerns that some changes could limit residents' chances to speak up.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said community input is essential. It helps with planning and ensures good governance.
"We want our community to have a real voice. This helps them in decisions that affect their neighbourhoods," Mayor Borg said.
"We support a consistent approach across the state. However, these reforms should not hurt transparency or real engagement. This is especially important for projects that impact the local community."
The council's submission raises issues with a proposed blanket exemption. This exemption would let us skip showing most development applications (DAs) to the public. The Council believes this approach is too broad. It could reduce community awareness. It may also limit involvement in key developments, like residential flat buildings and shop top housing.
In its submission, Council recommends key changes. These aim to improve the draft CPP. They include:
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Ensuring clear transitional arrangements when the new plan comes into effect.
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Requiring extended public notification for State Significant Development applications involving rezonings.
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Mandating neighbour notification for certain development applications, including those with planning variations.
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Limiting notification exemptions in industrial areas to low-impact uses.
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Introducing post-determination notification for complying development certificates (CDCs).
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Extending advance notice of work commencement for CDCs from 7 to 14 days.
The Council noted that the draft CPP outlines basic requirements. Councils need the freedom to create their own engagement plans. These plans should meet the needs of local communities.
The submission fits with the Council's new Community Engagement Strategy 2026–2036. This strategy shows their promise for community input into decision-making. It aims to be inclusive and transparent.
The community can see the submission in the Agenda of Georges River Council - Environment and Planning Committee Meeting - Monday, 11 May 2026.
