Make a submission on a DA

In some cases, Cessnock City Council is required to notify the general public or nearby property owners of a proposed development. 

You may support or object to a development if you are of the opinion that it might affect you.


Before you make a submission

Review the proposal

Before you make a submission, read the information supporting the application and view the plans. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being proposed.

You can track the status of any application we're assessing via the Application Tracker. Supporting documentation and plans are only available on the Application Tracker during the exhibition period.

Seek clarification

In most instances, the applicant will be your neighbour. You may be able to clarify details or resolve concerns by discussing the proposal with them directly.

You can also contact the Council Officer assessing the application. Contact details of the nominated officer are included in the development notification letter received or public notice published.


Submission requirements

Your submission must outline the reasons why you support or object to the application. The reasons you provide will be carefully considered during assessment of the application. Do not make offensive or defamatory comments.

Group petitions can be submitted, but will not be considered as a submission and will be treated separately. If a petition is submitted, the person who submits it will be the designated point of contact for all future correspondence.

All submissions must be received by close of business on the last day of the exhibition period, unless otherwise stated. Late submissions are not considered by Council.

Confidentiality

Submissions are NOT confidential (excepted for your contact number, email address and signature).

Copies of submissions may also be forwarded to the applicant. They can address the issues raised by way of comments or amendments to the application.

You'll need to advise us within your submission if you wish for any information that may identify you to be withheld from the public.

Anonymous submissions will not be considered.

Declaration of Political Donations and Gifts

You are required to disclose information if you or an associate have made any political donations and gifts to a Councillor or Council employee during the two years prior to making your submission.


Lodging a submission

Online

  1. View the list of Applications on Exhibition
  2. Find the application you wish to comment on
  3. Click on the Details button
  4. Scroll down to the Exhibition Details/Make a Submission section

Via email or in writing

Submissions must to be addressed to Council’s General Manager. Please include the application number you wish to comment on. You must also provide your:

  • name
  • address
  • phone number and email

Send your submission via email at council@cessnock.nsw.gov.au or to Cessnock City Council, PO Box 152, Cessnock NSW 2325.

Once the exhibition period has ended, you will receive a submission confirmation. Council will not answer questions you may have included in your submission, but will consider the matters raised as part of the assessment process.

You will also be notified of the outcome of the application once it is determined. If the application is amended, it may be re-exhibited (at our discretion).