A development application asks the relevant authority to assess a proposed development. Planco helps identify the planning pathway, prepare supporting reports and manage the application. In Queensland, starting a new use or materially changing an existing use can involve a material change of use (MCU) application.
Start with the right application
A new business, additional dwellings or a change in how a property operates can raise different planning questions. In Queensland, a material change of use (MCU) is one common application type. It is not a catch-all approval for every aspect of a project: subdivision, building work and operational work may need separate consideration.
What we look at
We review the proposal against the relevant council planning scheme, including zoning, local or neighbourhood plans and overlays. We identify the category of assessment, likely supporting reports and whether state referral matters need investigation. A useful early assessment explains both the opportunities and the issues that could reshape the design.
Prepare a coordinated submission
Our agreed scope can include a planning report, assessment against relevant benchmarks, application documentation and coordination with your designer and technical consultants. We manage lodgement, help coordinate responses to information requests and arrange public notification where required. The aim is a coherent submission with a clear explanation of the proposal.
From decision to delivery
We help you understand the decision and its conditions, including matters that need attention before work or use begins. Planning approval, building certification and other permits serve different purposes. We flag the remaining steps and who should address them, so the development approval becomes a usable project milestone.
Send the address or lot/plan reference, a concept sketch, the intended use and any previous council advice. We can identify what needs to be resolved before detailed design.
General Queensland planning guidance, reviewed October 2026. The applicable scheme, approval history and requirements need to be checked for your property and proposal.
Related planning advice
Further reading
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