The planning and development process, particularly the assessment of development applications (DAs), is a critical but often resource-intensive function for Australian councils. Artificial Intelligence presents a significant opportunity to streamline these workflows, bringing speed, consistency, and accuracy to DA analysis.
How AI Assists in DA Analysis:
AI algorithms excel at processing and analysing large volumes of information, including text documents and detailed plans submitted as part of a DA. They can be trained to:
- Identify non-compliant segments against regulations.
- Flag missing information or documentation.
- Perform self-assessment checks for applicants.
- Enable risk-based triage for council staff.
- Analyse spatial data for site-specific requirements.
Key Benefits:
- Faster Processing Times: Reduce delays associated with manual review.
- Improved Consistency & Accuracy: Apply regulations uniformly and reduce human error.
- Reduced Risk: Minimise errors and ensure compliance.
- Better Resource Allocation: Free up planners to focus on complex assessments and strategic planning.
Pioneering Initiatives in Australia:
- NSW Spatial Digital Twin: A groundbreaking 4D (3D + time) framework integrating thousands of datasets. It provides councils with powerful visualisation and analysis tools for urban planning, infrastructure management, and understanding development impacts over time. The Bathurst Spatial Digital Twin is a practical example.
- City of Sydney: Implemented an AI-based review for Complying Development Certificates, using an e-planning tool to rapidly identify non-compliance and provide immediate feedback, significantly improving efficiency.
- NSW Government AI in Planning Initiative: Investing $5.6 million to integrate AI into the state's planning system. This includes establishing an AI Solutions Panel for councils to procure vetted AI tools and awarding over $2.7 million in Early Adopter Grants to 16 councils (including Bayside, Blacktown, Newcastle, Cumberland, Lake Macquarie, and others) to trial these solutions, focusing on the pre-lodgement phase.
- Research & Development: Collaborative projects like the FrontierSI/UNSW RAISE tool for property valuation and UNSW's ARC Discovery project on trustworthy AI in DA assessment are pushing the boundaries.
AI is rapidly moving from potential to practice in council planning departments. Initiatives like the NSW Spatial Digital Twin and the AI in Planning program, alongside pioneering work by councils like the City of Sydney, demonstrate the transformative power of AI to make development application analysis faster, more accurate, and more efficient, ultimately benefiting both councils and applicants.
Exploring how AI can streamline development assessments — and beyond? Our council-focused guide, *How to Apply AI Directives: A Practical Guide for Councils*, outlines practical strategies for responsibly implementing AI across planning, infrastructure, finance, waste, community engagement, and more.