Today, the stakes are high. Many developments are derailed by the delays, costs and distraction that come when the planning approval turns sour. The key to a painless approval, says Trevor Ludeman of Project Planning and Development, is an application that addresses all the requirements of the planning scheme and presents a solid justification for the development.

But this is complex territory, governed by a maze of state and municipal policies, strategic statements, zones, overlays and provisions. It's hardly surprising that savvy developers are increasingly enlisting expert help to produce applications that are attractive to council – generally headed by a town planning consultant. Download this attachment which explains the top 10 reasons why town planning consultants smooth the path to a planning permit. Here, Mr Ludeman explains the top 10 reasons why town planning consultants smooth the path to a planning permit.