Why AI Falls Short for NSW Development Applications — The Value of Local Planning Expertise
- Plan BE
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
AI is revolutionising industries across Australia — from finance to customer service — and now it’s starting to appear in the world of urban and town planning. But when it comes to navigating the unique complexities of local council approvals in NSW, relying solely on AI could cost you more than you think.
The Rise of AI in Planning
AI is becoming an increasingly popular solution in many industries. In planning, some companies now offer development application services using AI-generated templates and automated submission systems. These services often promote:
Affordability
Fast turnaround times
Nationwide availability
Confidence in the application process
On paper, this sounds great. But planning isn't just paperwork — it's local law, regulation, negotiation, and often, a relationship-driven process. That’s where AI falls short.
Why AI Planning Reports Often Fail with Local Councils & NSW Development Applications
The reality is that every local council in NSW has its own planning controls, procedures, and approval pathways. AI models that rely on national-level data or generic templates simply don’t have the insight needed to satisfy site-specific and council-specific requirements.
At PlanBE, we’ve seen this first-hand. We’ve been brought in to fix applications that were generated by AI services — and in many cases, the reports lacked the local context and detail councils require to properly assess a proposal.
Why Personalised, Local Planning Services Matter
Here’s the truth: Councils don’t talk to chatbots. They want to speak to real, experienced planning professionals who understand their systems and can engage meaningfully during the approvals process.
Often, councils request additional documentation, clarification, or amendments. Having a local planner who understands how to respond and when to push back is critical to keeping your project moving forward.
Our Advantage: NSW Planning Expertise Meets Competitive Pricing
At PlanBE, we’ve developed a pricing model that competes with AI-based services, without sacrificing quality or local expertise. Our approach offers:
Value for money with no compromise on quality
Time guarantees for all deliverables
Direct communication with councils — from real people, every time
Specialisation in NSW — because planning legislation varies drastically across states
Genuine, realistic assessments of your development potential
We aim to be the most effective, especially when the goal is Council approval in NSW.
Case Study: When AI Gets It Wrong
We've had clients come to us with fully paid reports from national AI-based firms that simply didn’t understand NSW planning frameworks. One client received a report intended for a different state entirely — complete with incorrect references to planning codes and policies.
In these situations, local knowledge saved the day.
Our director, who has over 20 years’ experience with both NSW Councils and NSW Government Planning, stepped in to deliver a compliant and locally relevant application that was taken seriously by Council.
Every Application is Different — One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Whether it’s a shed with a toilet, a 50-lot subdivision, or the continuing use of an unapproved structure, each application is unique. That’s why PlanBE refuses to use a one-size-fits-all approach.
We only take on projects where we know we can provide real value. If a job is outside our scope — such as planning applications in WA or Victoria — we’ll happily refer it to someone more qualified. That’s our commitment to integrity and local excellence.
PlanBE: Real People, Real Results for NSW Development Applications
If cost is a major consideration, we understand. But don’t sacrifice your outcome for a shortcut that might not deliver. With PlanBE, you get:
Competitive pricing
Human engagement with local councils
NSW-specific planning knowledge
Confidence that your application is being handled by experts who care
Avoid Delays, Rejections and Costly Revisions
If you're planning a development in NSW, speak with us before engaging a generic AI service. We’ll guide you through the process, help you avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your application is tailored to the Council you're dealing with.
Be savvy. Be realistic. Always have a plan.
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