A Queensland council has unveiled a new AI Development Assistant that can provide instant, tailored advice to residents looking to build on their properties.
Sunshine Coast residents now have access to a new AI-powered online tool, providing instant, reliable development guidance – anytime, anywhere.
Whether residents are adding a shed, building a granny flat, renovating a home or starting something bigger, the AI Development Assistant is designed to support early planning decisions and make the development process easier to navigate. It helps users understand what applications may be required, without needing technical knowledge or all the details upfront.
Sunshine Coast Mayor, Rosanna Natoli, said that the new service was about making tailored advice more accessible for all.
“We know that considering building or renovating can be stressful and sometimes confusing, especially for people who aren’t familiar with the process,” Mayor Natoli said.
“This new tool gives residents the ability to explore their options and get answers when it suits them – even if that’s after hours or on weekends.”
Residents can use the AI Development Assistant for answers to their initial planning enquiries – finding out what they can do on their land, such as build a house, granny flat or deck, or even extend or renovate.
Guiding users through key questions, the assistant helps everyone understand what development applications might be needed and how to avoid delays. It delivers instant, tailored answers to support confident decision-making.
Mayor Natoli said that the initiative reflected Council’s commitment to embracing technology that benefitted the community.
“We’re always looking for ways to improve the experience for our residents,” she said.
“By working with Australia’s leading technology partners, we’re delivering smarter services that make it easier for people to plan and build with confidence.”
The project has been made possible by the Federal Government through the Housing Support Program, that aims to improve planning systems, deliver enabling infrastructure and support community amenities that unlock housing opportunities.
“We sincerely thank the Australian Government for their support and contribution to this project,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Their investment has helped us deliver a service that empowers our community and supports better housing outcomes.”
Anyone considering development and seeking guidance should visit Council’s website sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au and search ‘AI Development Assistant’.
