What is a Statement of Environmental Effects and why does your DA need one?

If you're preparing a Development Application (DA) in NSW, chances are you've come across the term Statement of Environmental Effects, or SEE. At Pac Planning, we know this can feel like just another piece of paperwork—but it’s one of the most important parts of the application process.

So, what exactly is a SEE? And how does it support the success of your project?

Let’s break it down.

What is a Statement of Environmental Effects?

A Statement of Environmental Effects is a written report that outlines the potential environmental impacts of your proposed development and how they will be managed. It also shows how your proposal aligns with local planning controls, state legislation, and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

In simple terms: it’s a way of demonstrating that your development has been carefully thought through, complies with the rules, and won’t create unexpected impacts on the surrounding area.

Why is it Required?

A Statement of Environmental Effects is a mandatory document for all Development Applications (DAs) under NSW planning legislation. It’s required to ensure that Council has a clear understanding of what’s being proposed, how it complies with planning controls, and what potential impacts the proposal may have on the environment or surrounding area. The SEE supports Council in making its assessment in accordance with section 4.15 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, which sets out the matters that must be considered during the DA process. These include the relevant planning controls, likely environmental impacts, suitability of the site, and the public interest.

Think of the SEE as your project’s supporting statement. Without it, your application won’t be cannot be accepted for lodgement, and the assessment process can’t begin.

A well-prepared SEE helps prevent delays, requests for additional information, or potential refusals by clearly communicating your proposal and addressing the key planning considerations up front.

What Does a SEE Include?

Every SEE is a little different depending on the site, development type, and local planning context, but the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 sets out some key requirements.

Generally, a Statement of Environmental Effects must include:

• A clear description of the proposed development and the site conditions

• An assessment of the proposal against relevant planning instruments—such as the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), Development Control Plan (DCP), and any applicable State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs)

• An evaluation of any likely environmental impacts, including impacts on the natural and built environment

• An outline of how impacts will be avoided, minimised or managed

• A statement addressing whether the development is in the public interest

At Pac Planning, we make sure your SEE doesn’t just meet these requirements—it also provides a clear, structured, and easy-to-understand explanation of your proposal that builds confidence with Council assessors.

It’s not about ticking boxes, it’s about telling the story of your project in a way that’s clear, structured, and aligned with planning requirements.

How Pac Planning Can Help

We specialise in preparing site-specific Statements of Environmental Effects that meet all statutory requirements and reflect the unique aspects of your project. We ensure your SEE is clear, compliant, and tailored to the local planning context.

Our planning team takes the time to understand your goals, assess your site in detail, and deliver documentation that gives your DA the strongest possible foundation

Ready to Get Started?

If you're about to lodge a development application and need a Statement of Environmental Effects, we’re here to help. Get in touch to discuss your project and how we can support a smooth and confident path to approval.

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Helping clients across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Singleton—and beyond.