Builder Guide

Australian Building Permit Guide

Understand which approvals your project needs, how long they take, and what they cost.

CDC (Complying Development Certificate)

Timeframe
10–20 business days
Typical Cost
$3,000 – $8,000
Issued By
Private Certifier

When needed: Standard projects that meet set rules — most new homes, extensions under certain thresholds

Faster and cheaper than DA. Approved by a private certifier, not council.

DA (Development Application)

Timeframe
3–12 months
Typical Cost
$8,000 – $30,000
Issued By
Council

When needed: Complex projects, heritage properties, sites not meeting CDC criteria

Assessed by council. Can involve public notification and merit assessment.

Construction Certificate (CC)

Timeframe
2–4 weeks
Typical Cost
$2,000 – $6,000
Issued By
Certifier

When needed: Required after DA approval, before construction begins

Confirms plans comply with Building Code. Issued by certifier.

Building Permit (VIC)

Timeframe
2–6 weeks
Typical Cost
$2,000 – $8,000
Issued By
Varies

When needed: Victoria equivalent of CDC/CC — required for all regulated building work

Issued by a Registered Building Surveyor.

Development Approval (QLD/SA/WA)

Timeframe
4–12 weeks
Typical Cost
$3,000 – $15,000
Issued By
Varies

When needed: Similar to NSW DA — required for most construction work in these states

Process varies by state and council.

General Approval Tips

Always confirm which approval pathway applies before engaging a builder — this affects your timeline significantly.
CDC (fast-track) approval is only available if your project meets specific development standards. Check with a private certifier early.
Heritage-listed or heritage overlay properties almost always require a full DA regardless of project size.
Your builder should manage the approval process as part of their service. If they don't, ensure someone is clearly responsible.
Allow for approval timeframes in your project timeline — delays here push back your construction start date.

We Manage All Approvals For You

Our builders handle CDC and DA approvals as part of the full project service.