Thinking about building your dream home or giving your current place a big makeover? Before the first brick is laid, you’ll need approval for your plans. In most cases, you’ve got two main options: a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).

What’s a DA?

A DA is the more traditional path. You’ll submit your plans to the local council, who will review them against planning rules and guidelines. The process also gives your neighbours and community a chance to provide feedback. Once approved, you’ll still need a Construction Certificate (CC) before any building work begins.
A DA can take around 3–6 months, depending on whether extra documents or changes are requested.

What’s a CDC?

A CDC is a faster, simplified option. It combines planning and construction approval in one go and can be done through your local council or a private certifier. The catch? Your plans must tick every single box of the CDC rules. If they don’t, your application won’t be accepted. The upside is speed, approvals usually come through within 2–3 months.

Which One Should You Choose?

CDC: Great if your project is straightforward and fits the strict guidelines. It’s quicker and often cheaper.
DA: The better choice if you want more design freedom, or if your project is in a heritage area, environmentally sensitive land, or just doesn’t fully match the CDC rules. While it takes longer, councils can show some flexibility, especially if your design doesn’t negatively impact surrounding properties.

The Bottom Line

If your design is simple and by the book, a CDC can save you time and money. But if you want more flexibility or have a unique site or design, a DA is the way to go. Choosing the right path early will save you a lot of stress later and help bring your dream home to life smoothly.