What are the essential planning approval steps for multi-unit townhouse developments in inner-city Brisbane?

For multi-unit townhouse developments in inner-city Brisbane, essential planning approval typically commences with a Pre-lodgement Meeting with Brisbane City Council to discuss site-specific constraints and the Brisbane City Plan 2014. This is followed by a Development Application (DA) submission, usually requiring a Material Change of Use (MCU) and Reconfiguring a Lot (RAL), which necessitates detailed architectural, landscape, stormwater management, and traffic impact plans. The application undergoes public notification, assessment against the relevant planning schemes and codes, and ultimately a decision by the Council. Post-approval, further operational works approvals for construction and service connections are required before construction can commence.