A planning agreement is also known as a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA). It is a legal agreement between Council and a developer. 

A planning agreement may be entered into when a developer:

• Requests a change to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) through a Planning Proposal. 

• Or submits a development application.

A developer agrees to offer or fund benefits that help the community under a planning agreement. These benefits can include:

• Public amenities or public services.

• Affordable housing.

• Transport infrastructure.

• Other public infrastructure.
   

What a planning agreement can include

A planning agreement may provide for:

• The dedication of land.

• Payment of a monetary contribution.

• Any other public benefit to be used for a public purpose.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 provides the legislation for planning agreements. The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure also provides:

• Practice Notes on Planning Agreements.

• Ministerial Directions.

• Guidelines to support the preparation and use of planning agreements.

Council's Policy on Planning Agreements

The GRC Planning Agreements Policy 2026 explains Council’s approach to planning agreements. It sets out Council’s policies and procedures when entering into these agreements.

It provides guidelines for Council and developers to negotiate and prepare planning agreements. It also creates a fair and clear framework for using these agreements.

Refer to this policy and templates if you want to make an offer to enter into a planning agreement with Council. Please contact Council's Strategic Planning section to arrange a pre-lodgement meeting.

• GRC Planning Agreements Policy 2026.

• GRC Template Planning Agreement and Template Explanatory Note.

• Information Sheet - Planning Agreement Process.

Register of Planning Agreements

Council maintains a Register of Planning Agreements. This includes all planning agreements that Council has entered and executed.

Visit our Your Say page for information on draft or amended planning agreements. It provides details on what is currently on public notice.

Disclaimer
We strive to provide accurate information in the planning agreements register. It is noted that some errors or misdescription may occur. As such, this information should not be solely relied upon. If you are seeking information about a specific matter, please contact Council.