DA Currency Periods in NSW: What Smart Developers Need to Know

When you're developing in New South Wales, you don’t just need approval — you need to know how long that approval lasts. That’s called the currency period, and it’s one of the most important timelines in the game. Whether you’re building your first duplex or leading a large-scale commercial project, understanding the ticking clock on your DA can save you from delays, lapses, and expensive do-overs.

In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how long different development approvals stay valid — from standard DAs to integrated approvals and state significant developments. We’ll give you the straight facts so you can stay compliant, stay efficient, and stay profitable.

Standard DA Approvals: The 5-Year Window

Here’s the deal: once you get a standard Development Application (DA) approved in NSW, you’ve got five years to kick off the build. If you don’t start within that timeframe, your approval goes cold — you’ll need to apply again or try for an extension. That’s more paperwork, more delays, and potentially more costs.

Key takeaways:

• You’ve got 5 years from the date of consent.
• No activity? Your DA lapses.
• Want more time? You’ll need a valid reason and approval from council.
• Watch for zoning or policy changes that might impact your project if you delay.

The smart move? Plan to break ground early — don’t wait until year four to realise you’re out of time.

Integrated Developments: More Approvals, Same Deadline

If your project involves multiple government agencies — say you’re building near a waterway, heritage site, or involving environmental impact — it falls under integrated development. The currency period is still five years, but here’s the kicker: there are more moving parts, and delays are more likely.

So what do you do? You stay close to your consultants, talk to the right authorities early, and don’t let red tape run the clock out.

Bottom line: Just because you got consent doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Get your stakeholders lined up and the shovel in the ground early.

State Significant Development (SSD): Big Projects, Big Responsibility

If you’re dealing with a State Significant Development, your project’s on a whole different level — think infrastructure, energy, large housing estates. These projects have statewide impact, and the expectations are higher.

The currency period? Still five years.

The stakes? Much higher.

If you don’t start the project within that timeframe, the approval’s gone—and so is the time and money you’ve poured into it. Plus, reapplying under changed political or planning climates could mean a completely different outcome.

Pro tip: If delays are looming, don’t wait. Seek an extension early, communicate with stakeholders, and keep the momentum alive.

Final Thought: Don’t Let Time Work Against You

In development, success doesn’t just come from having a great project — it comes from managing the process like a pro. That means knowing your timelines, anticipating roadblocks, and moving with purpose.

Whether it’s a standard DA, an integrated project, or a state significant development, the five-year clock is ticking the moment your approval lands. So be bold, be prepared, and above all — be ready to build.