WAPC Subdivision Fees and Charges

Understanding the fees involved in subdividing property in Western Australia is essential for accurate budgeting. The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) charges application fees based on the type and scale of subdivision, and there are additional costs from Landgate and other agencies. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all fees and charges associated with subdivisions in WA.

WAPC Application Fees

The WAPC charges fees for processing subdivision applications. These fees are set by regulation and are reviewed periodically. The fee structure is based on the number of lots being created:

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always verify current fees with the WAPC before lodging your application.

Landgate Lodgement Fees

Once your subdivision is approved by the WAPC, the deposited plan must be lodged with Landgate to create new titles. Landgate charges fees for plan lodgement and title creation:

Service Authority Charges

Service authorities typically charge fees for assessing subdivision applications and providing services to new lots. These costs can be significant:

Water Corporation

The Water Corporation charges headworks contributions for new connections to water and sewerage infrastructure. These contributions fund the upgrade and extension of water and sewer networks. Typical costs include:

• Standard headworks contribution – $5,000 - $15,000 per lot (varies by location)
• Sewer connection – $2,000 - $5,000
• Water connection – $1,500 - $3,000
• Meter installation – $500 - $1,000

Areas requiring sewer extensions or pump stations may face significantly higher costs. Your subdivision surveyor can provide guidance on expected Water Corporation charges for your specific location.

Western Power

Electrical infrastructure costs depend on existing capacity and distance from existing infrastructure:

• Standard connection – $1,500 - $5,000 per lot
• Underground power – May add $2,000 - $5,000 per lot
• Transformer upgrades – $10,000+ if required

Telecommunications

NBN and other telecommunications connections:

• NBN connection – Often free or minimal cost in established areas
• Conduit installation – $500 - $1,500 per lot

Local Council Fees

While the WAPC is the approval authority for subdivisions, your local council may charge additional fees for:

• Crossover construction approval – $100 - $500
• Crossover construction (if required by council) – $2,000 - $5,000
• Public open space contribution – Cash-in-lieu payment (varies by council)
• Drainage contribution – May apply in some areas

The public open space contribution deserves special mention. Under the Planning and Development Act, subdividers may be required to contribute land or cash-in-lieu for public open space. This is typically 10% of the land value for large subdivisions, though exemptions may apply for small infill subdivisions.

Professional Fees

Beyond government fees, you'll need to budget for professional services:

Survey Fees

Licensed surveyor fees for a typical 2-lot subdivision include:

• Initial boundary survey – $1,500 - $3,000
• Subdivision plan preparation – $1,500 - $2,500
• Final survey and deposited plan – $2,000 - $4,000
• Landgate lodgement management – Often included in survey fee

See our detailed guide on land survey costs in Perth for more information.

Town Planning Fees

If you engage a town planner to manage the WAPC application:

• Simple 2-lot subdivision – $1,500 - $3,000
• Complex or larger subdivisions – $3,000 - $10,000+

Other Professional Costs

• Geotechnical report (if required) – $1,500 - $3,000
• Bushfire assessment (BAL rating) – $500 - $1,500
• Acoustic report (near busy roads) – $1,000 - $2,500
• Drainage design – $1,000 - $3,000

Example: Total Cost for 2-Lot Subdivision

Here's a realistic breakdown for a straightforward 2-lot subdivision in an established Perth suburb:

This estimate assumes straightforward conditions with existing services available. Properties requiring sewer extensions, challenging drainage solutions, or significant earthworks can cost significantly more.

Reducing Subdivision Costs

While government fees are fixed, there are ways to manage overall subdivision costs:

• Engage professionals early – Proper planning avoids costly amendments and delays
• Combine services – Some surveyors offer complete packages including WAPC application management
• Understand timing – Approvals are typically valid for 3-4 years, giving you time to budget for infrastructure works
• Get multiple quotes – Service authority costs are fixed, but professional fees vary

Related Articles

• The Perth Subdivision Process Explained
• How Much Does a Land Survey Cost in Perth?
• Strata Titles in WA Explained
• When Do You Need a Licensed Surveyor in WA?