Introduction The principle of consistency in decision making refers to the principle that: in circumstances where the planning framework is identical and the circumstances have not changed in any substantial way, it is in the interests of orderly and proper planning...

Development applications previously refused by local governments may be re-submitted in the form of a new and amended development application. Whilst some re-submitted development applications have indeed undergone significant amendments or have been re-submitted due...

What you need to know The Local Government Legislation Amendment Act 2019 was passed on 5 July 2019. The amendment act introduces significant amendments to the Local Government Act 1995 (Act) which affect the governance of local governments in...

Local governments are increasingly being asked to approve alternative solutions to a Building Code pool barrier requirement under r.51(5) of the Building Regulations 2012 (Regulations).  Pursuant to r.51(5), a permit authority may only approve an...

We are regularly asked to advise local governments on development applications for approval of residential developments which the applicant maintains are a single house but which have internal configurations and features more consistent with grouped or multiple...