When preparing a State Significant Development (SSD) application, most developers focus on design, planning approvals, and financial feasibility. However, an often-underappreciated component of the Estimated Development Cost (EDC) is the inclusion of employment estimates.
These estimates play a key role in demonstrating the broader economic value of a project and are an important requirement under planning regulations.
What Are Employment Estimate?
Employment estimates measure the number of jobs a development is expected to generate throughout its lifecycle. This includes not only jobs created during the construction phase, but also ongoing roles once the development becomes operational.
Beyond the obvious on-site workforce, employment estimates also take into account the ripple effect of a project. This includes jobs supported through supply chains and the wider economic activity generated by increased spending. As a result, they provide a more complete picture of how a development contributes to the economy.
Why Are Employment Estimates Required?
Planning authorities, including the Environmental Planning Authority (EPA), require employment estimates to better understand the economic impact of a proposed development. For projects classified as SSD, this is particularly important, as these developments are expected to deliver meaningful benefits at a state level.
By assessing employment generation, authorities can determine whether a project contributes to economic growth, supports job creation, and aligns with broader government objectives. In this context, employment estimates help justify the scale and significance of a development beyond its physical or financial metrics.
The Connection Between Employment Estimates and EDC
The EDC is a fundamental component of any SSD application, influencing how a project is classified and assessed. Employment estimates are closely linked to this figure, as the scale of investment typically correlates with the level of job creation.
Together, these metrics allow authorities to evaluate both the financial and economic significance of a development. A well-prepared EDC report that includes robust employment estimates strengthens the overall credibility of a submission and supports a smoother approval process.
How Employment Estimates Are Determined?
Employment estimates are generally calculated using established industry methodologies. These may involve benchmarking against similar projects, applying employment-to-cost ratios, or using economic modelling tools.
The key is ensuring that the approach is consistent, evidence-based, and appropriate for the type and scale of development. Reliable estimates not only meet regulatory expectations but also provide confidence to stakeholders reviewing the application.
Why Accuracy Is Essential?
Accurate employment estimates are more than just a compliance requirement, they can directly influence the outcome and timing of an SSD application. Poorly prepared or unsupported figures may lead to delays, additional information requests, or increased scrutiny from authorities.
Conversely, clear and well-supported estimates help demonstrate the real economic value of a project, reinforcing its importance and facilitating a more efficient assessment process.
How Archi-QS Can Support Your Project
At Archi-QS, we understand that an EDC report is more than a cost calculation, it is a critical document that supports your entire development application. Our team ensures that employment estimates are prepared with precision, aligned with industry standards, and tailored to your specific project.
By delivering accurate and compliant EDC reports, we help developers confidently navigate the SSD approval process while clearly demonstrating the economic contribution of their projects.