Council Secures $200K AI Grant to Streamline Development Applications
Published on 16 July 2024
Wingecarribee Shire Council is proud to be one of sixteen NSW councils selected to participate in a groundbreaking $5.6 million AI trial program led by the NSW Government. As part of this initiative, Council successfully secured a $200,000 grant to implement an AI system to streamline the development application process. This 12-month trial program aims to expedite timeframes by streamlining pre-lodgement checks.
“This AI-powered pre-lodgement check is a game-changer for development applications,” said Jon Shillito, Manager of Development Assessment and Regulation at Wingecarribee Shire Council. “Currently, nearly 7% of applications are returned due to missing or incorrect information and a much higher percentage delayed through, sometimes multiple, requests for information on an incomplete application. This new feature will assist our team by ensuring applications are complete and compliant upfront. This translates to significant time savings for both developers and planners, ultimately accelerating project determinations.”
The full implementation of the AI system will take approximately 4-6 months, with a trial period of 12 months under the grant. Following assessment of the trial Council will determine whether the AI solution is funded ongoing by assessing its effectiveness and impact on the development application process.
This innovative approach offers many advantages for our community:
- Faster Development Approvals: By streamlining the pre-lodgement phase, it is expected that there will be a reduction in development assessment times
- Improved Customer Experience: Applicants will receive real-time guidance and support during the pre-lodgement phase, leading to a smoother and more efficient submission process.
- Enhanced Efficiency for Council Staff: By automating pre-lodgement checks, AI frees up valuable planner resources, allowing them to focus on complex assessments and approvals.
Wingecarribee Shire Council is committed to exploring innovative solutions that benefit our residents and stakeholders. This AI trial aligns with our Digital Strategy, demonstrating our forward-thinking approach to technology adoption.
The success of the program will be measured through a decrease in development assessment workflow timeframes and improved lodgement success rates. Additionally, ongoing user feedback and system performance monitoring will ensure the AI system meets expectations.
This AI trial represents a significant step towards a more efficient and user-friendly planning system in Wingecarribee Shire.
For further information: Artificial Intelligence Trial