The Local Planning Panel decides on sensitive, complex and contentious development applications that come before Council, as well as more straightforward requests.
It helps keep the planning system open and accountable, protecting against corruption and supporting better decisions for our city.
Sitting alongside specialists on the panel, community representatives are key to this process. Their role is to ensure local insights and knowledge are considered as part of the panel’s decision-making.
While it’s a paid role, community representatives aren’t expected to have planning expertise. They’re appointed for their understanding of our area and knowledge of local community issues.
As we take applications for new representatives, we spoke with community representative Jayden to learn more about the role.
What does a community representative do?
We’re the voice of the community. My role isn’t to ask can we do something – that’s what the planning experts are there for. My job is to ask should we do it. Will this development actually benefit the community? Will it make Sydney a better place to live?
If a proposal breaks a rule – like going over a height limit – I want to know why. If it’s to add affordable housing or improve safety, that might be a good reason. But if it’s just about profit, I’ll question it.
What’s your connection to the City of Sydney?
I was born here, went to school and uni here, worked my first job here and I’ve run events and youth programs across the city. This is my backyard. When I see a building I helped approve, I feel proud. I tell my friends, ‘Hey, I was part of that!’
Why should someone apply to become a community representative?
If you care about your city – whether it’s affordable housing, sustainability or improving nightlife – this is a great way to make a real impact. You don’t need to be a planning expert. You just need to care and be willing to learn.
You’ll be supported through the process by the City of Sydney and you’ll learn fast. It’s a chance to bring your perspective to the table and help shape the future of Sydney.
What is a community representative expected to do?
You don’t need to be an expert in heritage, construction or planning rules. But you do need to ask the right questions – like, how will this affect the people who live here?
You’re expected to review proposals before each meeting. Sometimes it’s one application, sometimes it’s 8. Some are straightforward, others come with hundreds of community submissions.
But you are paid for your time.
Why is it important for young people to be on the panel?
I’m usually the youngest person in the room. I’m 31. Most of the experts and other community representatives are in their 40s, 50s or 60s. I experience Sydney differently because of this and can share this. I also always ask – how will this impact young people in Sydney?
If you’re passionate about the future of this city, this is an opportunity to help shape it.
Young people need to be involved. The decisions made by this panel will impact Sydney’s future, the future Sydney that young people will inherit.
Want to help guide development in Sydney? Apply to be a community representative on the Local Planning Panel. No planning expertise is required. Apply by 5pm, Friday 31 October.
Published 23 October 2025, updated 24 October 2025
