DA, BA, Tendering: Understanding the Stages of Your Build

The Development Application (DA) is submitted to your local council and assesses the proposal against zoning, land use, and environmental guidelines. This includes site layout, building height, setbacks, overshadowing, and traffic impact. DA approval focuses on how your design affects the broader community—not the fine details. It’s typically required for new builds, major renovations, and heritage sites.

Once DA is granted, you’ll need a Building Approval (BA) or Construction Certificate. This is usually handled by a private certifier and confirms the design complies with the Building Code of Australia and relevant technical standards. The BA stage includes full documentation: structural engineering, stormwater, energy assessments, and detailed specifications. Without BA, you can’t legally begin construction.

With documentation complete, the tendering stage invites qualified builders to price your project based on the exact specifications. It’s a critical step—not just for cost control, but for aligning with a builder who understands your design goals and standards. A formal tender process promotes transparency, encourages competitive pricing, and reduces variation risk during construction.

In some cases, a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) can replace both DA and BA, but only for simpler builds. Most prestige or custom projects will need both.

Council processing times vary, but most DAs take 6–12 weeks. Delays are common if documentation is incomplete or objections arise.

Not always. Internal works that don’t affect the structure or external appearance may be exempt, but it’s best to confirm with your local council or certifier.

A complete tender includes architectural₍₁₎ drawings, engineering, finishes schedules, specifications, and any required reports—ensuring accurate, apples-for-apples pricing.

It’s not recommended. Early quotes based on concept plans lack precision and can lead to major cost overruns later.

The success of your project isn’t just about great design—it’s about timing, approvals, and working with the right team. Understanding how DA, BA, and tendering fit together gives you a clearer view of the entire process. With the right guidance, each phase builds momentum, reducing stress and setting your project up for success on site.

Ready to move forward with confidence? Start by speaking to a designer who understands not just what to build—but how to get it built.