Blacktown City Council has launched DAISY, a new digital planning assistant designed to help residents better understand planning requirements and prepare residential development applications.
DAISY, which stands for Development Application Information System, is an artificial intelligence-powered tool available through Council's website. It provides 24-hour access to general planning information and guidance to support people at the early stages of the development application process.
More than 80 per cent of development applications received by Council come from individual residents seeking to build a new home, renovate or extend an existing property, or subdivide for dual occupancy. Council staff identified that improving the quality of applications at the point of submission is one of the most effective ways to reduce delays and improve the customer experience.
DAISY helps users understand applicable planning controls, identify required documentation and check whether basic submission requirements have been met before lodging an application through the NSW Planning Portal.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the tool was introduced to make the planning process clearer and more accessible for the community.
"For many residents, the development application process can feel complex and overwhelming," Mayor Bunting said.
"DAISY is designed to give people clearer information earlier, so they can submit better-prepared applications and avoid unnecessary delays.
"It doesn't replace Council's planning staff or decision-making processes, but it is a practical customer service tool that helps residents understand what is required before they lodge."
DAISY was developed with support from the NSW Government's Artificial Intelligence in NSW Planning – Council Early Adopter Grant Program, administered by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. Council partnered with design and development agency Adaptovate to deliver the tool.
Council will continue to refine DAISY over time based on user feedback and ongoing improvements to planning data and systems.
DAISY is available on Blacktown City Council's website.
