Your backyard could help unlock retirement options or any number of goals or life dreams. If your property is large enough, subdividing can be a smart way to free up capital without selling up or moving neighbourhoods.
In Queensland, subdividing a larger block into smaller lots requires a Development Application (DA).
Many people want to have some idea of how long the whole application will take BEFORE they get the ball rolling.
The easy answer is that a successful application won’t be as quick as you might like but, by being thorough and doing your homework up front, the process can be more efficient.
This overview takes in some of the things you should consider to help make the application process and smooth and stress-free as possible.
DON'T FORGET HOLDING COSTS
Buyers often do a lot of research into property prices and professional fees for services like planners, engineers and architects, but there is an expense people often overlook when deciding to develop a property…
Holding costs.
That’s the mortgage repayments while you develop and build as well as insurance, rates etc.
There are four main steps in the DA application journey:
Step 1: Plan and Engage
Before you dive in, it’s worth getting the right people on your side. A town planner can help you understand your local council’s planning rules, while a civil engineer can check things like water, sewer, and stormwater connections.
You’ll also need a surveyor to draw up a possible layout for your new lots.
It’s a good idea to look into your local council’s planning scheme too - this will tell you about things like the minimum lot size, frontage requirements, and any other restrictions that might affect your plans.
Taking the time to get clear on these details upfront will make the rest of the process much smoother.
Step 2: Get Your Paperwork In Order
Once you’ve done your planning, it’s time to pull everything together for your Development Application (DA). Don’t worry - it’s mostly about filling out the right forms and making sure you’ve got your supporting documents ready.
Start with the DA Form 1. This is a standard form that’s usually required for all development applications. []br[]br] Then check your local council’s website (for example, the City of Gold Coast) for their specific forms - you’ll likely need the one for Material change of use and/or Reconfiguring a lot.
Add any supporting documents. Depending on your project, you might also need to include things like an Infrastructure Charge Proposal Summary or other council-related forms.
Step 3: Lodge Your DA
When you’re ready, it’s time to submit your application to the council. You can usually do this online through their portal, or if you prefer, drop it off in person at your local council customer service centre.
Don’t forget there’s a lodgement fee to pay when you submit your application - the amount will depend on your council and the type of project you’re applying for.
Once it’s lodged, your council will start reviewing everything, and you’ll be one step closer to bringing your subdivision plans to life.
Step 4: You're Approved!
Once your Development Application (DA) is approved, there are just a few final steps to complete your subdivision.
Prepare the survey plan:
A licensed surveyor will create a detailed plan showing the new lots exactly as approved.
Get council sign-off:
Your local council will then seal the plan, confirming everything meets the approval conditions.
Confirm owner and lender consent:
If there’s a mortgage on the property, your lender will need to give written consent before the subdivision can be registered.
Register the plan:
Once everything’s signed off, the survey plan is officially registered, and your subdivision is complete - your new lots are now ready to take the next step!