Your guide to finding a trusted, qualified expert for a smooth and successful outcome
Whether you’re developing a residential subdivision, submitting a commercial DA, or seeking advice on rezoning land, working with the right urban planner can mean the difference between costly delays and a successful, stress-free approval. Urban planners play a critical role in navigating local planning laws, balancing community needs, and guiding development projects from concept to completion.
But with so many planners across Australia offering different services and specialisations, how do you choose the one that best suits your project?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to selecting the right urban planner — so you can make informed decisions, reduce risks, and move forward with confidence.
1. Understand What Type of Planning Support You Need
Not all urban planners offer the same services — and not every project requires the same level of planning input. Before reaching out to a professional, clarify what stage your project is at and what kind of planning support is required.
Here are a few common types of urban planning services:
- Strategic Planning: Long-term land use planning, rezoning, and structure planning (typically for councils or larger developments).
- Statutory Planning: Assistance with development applications (DAs), planning permits, and navigating local government requirements.
- Subdivision & Land Use Planning: Advice on subdividing land, change-of-use applications, and aligning with state planning policies.
- Specialised Planning: Environmental impact assessments, heritage planning, transport planning, or social planning.
Tip: Use our urban planner directory to filter professionals by service type — whether it’s subdivision, DA support, or heritage overlays.
2. Check Qualifications, Accreditation & Industry Memberships
A qualified urban planner should hold relevant tertiary qualifications in urban or regional planning, town planning, or a closely related field. In Australia, it’s also worth checking for:
- Membership with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA): This is the peak national body for planners and signals adherence to industry standards and ethics.
- Local Government Registration or Recognition: Especially relevant if you’re working on projects requiring local council approvals.
- Special Certifications: Such as heritage planning or environmental assessment credentials.
Tip: Look for credentials listed in planner profiles or verify qualifications during initial contact.
3. Review Their Project Experience
Every development is different — so it’s essential to find a planner with experience in projects similar to yours. When browsing or speaking with urban planners, ask or look for:
- Previous projects in your location or council area
- Projects of a similar size or type (e.g., subdivisions, retail, mixed-use)
- Case studies or examples of successful approvals
- Experience navigating local planning schemes
Tip: Use our directory to read real customer reviews and browse past project highlights on planner profile pages.
4. Ask the Right Questions Before Hiring
Once you’ve shortlisted one or two planners, arrange a phone call or meeting. Use this opportunity to evaluate their knowledge, communication style, and approach.
Key questions to ask:
- Have you worked on similar projects in this council area?
- What are the main planning risks or challenges with my site?
- What services are included in your fee?
- What’s your turnaround time for reports or application submissions?
- Will you manage the entire DA process or just the planning report?
Tip: Good planners should be transparent, proactive, and able to explain complex planning matters in simple terms.
5. Understand Costs and Scope of Services
Planning costs can vary depending on the scope, complexity, and location of your project. Common billing models include fixed fees for reports, hourly rates, or staged packages (e.g., site assessment, DA preparation, submission support).
When comparing quotes, always confirm:
- What’s included and what’s not
- Whether site visits, revisions, or council meetings incur extra fees
- How and when payments are expected
Tip: The cheapest option isn’t always best — look for planners who offer clarity and value, not just a low quote.
6. Choose a Planner Who Understands Local Regulations
Planning controls can vary significantly from one local council to another. Hiring someone who knows your local planning scheme, council preferences, and state-based frameworks is a major advantage.
A planner with local experience is more likely to:
- Pre-empt issues that could delay approvals
- Communicate effectively with council officers
- Suggest viable alternative pathways if your first option is blocked
Tip: On our platform, you can search for planners by city, region, or council area.
7. Read Verified Reviews and Ratings
Feedback from previous clients can offer valuable insights into a planner’s communication, professionalism, and success rate. Always check:
- Star ratings and detailed written reviews
- Whether the planner delivers on time
- How well they handle unexpected challenges
Tip: Our directory features verified reviews only, helping you hire with confidence.
Final Thoughts: Choose with Confidence
The right urban planner doesn’t just tick boxes — they become a valuable advisor and guide throughout your project. By taking the time to research, compare, and ask the right questions, you’ll be well-placed to select a planner who can help you avoid costly missteps and secure the outcomes you want.
Ready to Find the Right Urban Planner?
Explore our Urban Planner Directory to discover qualified, vetted professionals near you.
Search by service, location, or speciality — and connect directly with planners who are ready to help.
