Development applications

DA tracker
DA tracker

The DA tracker enables you to view development applications when they are on exhibition, and to track progress as they are assessed - all online. Track yours here.
Step 1: Do you need a DA?
Step 1: Do you need a DA?

Before undertaking any development or building works, you must determine if you need a DA or approval from Council.
Step 2: Prepare your DA
Step 2: Prepare your DA

The pre-lodgement stage is the front end of the development assessment process. Learn how to get it right for a straightforward DA process.
Step 3: Lodge your DA
Step 3: Lodge your DA

Learn where to lodge an assessment-ready development application (DA) and how long it will take to know the outcome.
Step 4: Track your DA
Step 4: Track your DA

Find out how you can track your application and what we consider during its assessment.
Step 5: Determination and next steps
Step 5: Determination and next steps

All you need to know once your DA has been determined.
Types of development
Types of development

The size and scale of your development proposal will determine which of the development assessment pathways is appropriate for you.
Urban design panel
Urban design panel

We established the Urban Design Panel to provide independent advice to Council on the quality of the urban design and amenity of specific types of development in Port Stephens.
DA e-subscription sign up
DA e-subscription sign up

Sign up to our DA e-subscription service to find out about development applications lodged with Council the week prior. Each DA listing will have a direct link to view information and lodge a submission or comment.

Sign up to our DA e-subscription service

Find out about development applications lodged with Council the week prior. Each DA listing will have a direct link to view information and lodge a submission or comment.

Sign Up