Insights & Ideas

The April 2026 strata law changes are now in effect — new capital works fund plan requirements, independent surveyor obligations, and embedded network disclosures. Here's what your committee needs to act on now.

Sky Planning Director Melissa Neighbour has been elevated to Registered Planner — the highest individual accreditation grade conferred by the Planning Institute of Australia.

From checking your planning controls to receiving consent — a complete guide to the Development Application process in New South Wales.

Development Application or Complying Development Certificate — which pathway is right for your project? Here's the honest comparison.

What to look for, what to ask, and what the red flags are. Honest advice from a Sydney town planning consultancy.

If you're thinking about building, developing, or buying property in NSW, land zoning is the first thing you'll encounter. We break it down clearly.

Sky Planning featured on ABC Radio discussing Third Spaces in Sydney — the public places that build community, wellbeing and urban resilience.

We're proud to support Hark Angel's mission to build 100 schools in developing nations, donating 5% of profits in Q3 2025.

New NCC 2025 proposals could require a full DA for routine balcony waterproofing. Sky Planning explains why this matters — and what needs to change.

The NSW Land and Environment Court has released new practice notes on generative AI. Here's what legal practitioners need to know.

A new collaboration between Ballast Point and Sky Planning aimed at clearing up legislative grey areas that slow the NSW property industry.

Thinking about subdividing land in NSW? Here's a clear overview of the planning controls, professional team requirements, costs, and key steps involved.

Melissa Neighbour was quoted in the Sydney Morning Herald on Third Spaces. Here's why these community anchors are so vital to how we live.

Congratulations to Sky Planning Director Melissa Neighbour, named a Winner in the Top 100 Women in Construction for 2023.

Before AutoCAD there were blueprints. Discover the fascinating chemistry and history behind this essential tool of the architecture and engineering world.

During the 2020 COVID lockdowns, Melissa gave a TEDxMelbourne talk on walkable cities and the unexpected gift of spontaneity. Watch the recording.

Want to stay informed about development proposals near you? Here's a free, simple service that alerts you to planning applications in your area.

A walkable city is a liveable, sustainable, healthy and happy city. Melissa reflects on COVID lockdowns, Bolivia's Pedestrian Day, and why our streets need to be reclaimed for people.