• January 21, 2026
• By JEP Team

Holding a pre-lodgement meeting with Council before submitting a development application (DA) is one of the most effective steps you can take to secure a smooth and timely approval. This early engagement gives applicants the opportunity to understand possible barriers, refine their proposal, and ensure that all required studies and supporting information are prepared from the outset.

A pre-lodgement meeting allows you to present your project’s concept design, scoping report, and preliminary investigations directly to the consent authority. In return, Council provides early guidance, flags potential concerns, and outlines the critical elements they expect to see addressed in the DA. This alignment at the beginning of the process can significantly improve both the quality of the submission and its likelihood of approval.

Benefits of a Pre-lodgement Meeting

Engaging in a pre-lodgement meeting offers several advantages for both the applicant and the consent authority, helping to create a clear and collaborative path to approval.

• Identify key issues early – Early discussion allows potential site constraints or non-compliances to be addressed upfront, avoiding costly redesigns or delays later in the DA process. 
• Receive clear Council notes – Council can issue notes outlining specific requirements that must be addressed in the DA, as well as provide guidance on the scope of the project and key studies needed. 
• Establish a defined planning pathway – At a pre-lodgement meeting the applicant and the consent authority will agree on a specific planning pathway and which laws are to be followed by the applicant. 
• Clarify community consultation expectations – The Council or consent authority may recommend additional community consultation be done prior to lodgement of the DA. The scope of the consultation can be discussed to seek guidance on extent of consultation which is recommended. 
• Reduced risk of refusal – By holding a pre-lodgement meeting, the consent authority can ask questions to fully understand the scope of the project. This minimises surprises when they review the lodged DA.

Ultimately, investing in a pre-lodgement meeting saves time, reduces uncertainty, and creates a collaborative environment where your project can progress efficiently.

As environmental and industrial planners, we specialise in leading the pre-lodgement process on behalf of businesses. We prepare clear concept designs, scoping documents, and preliminary assessments and ensure complex project information is communicated in a structured, concise way. By guiding the conversation, we help the consent authority gain a strong, early understanding of your project — setting the foundation for a more streamlined approval.

Pre-lodgement meetings foster transparency, alignment, and confidence for everyone involved. By taking this proactive step, applicants move forward with certainty while approval bodies can assess applications more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of delays.

If you need support navigating a pre-lodgement meeting, our team of experienced environmental and industrial planners are here to help. Reach us at (02) 8056 1849 or email us at admin@jacksonenvironment.com.au. More info at https://www.jacksonenvironment.com.au.