PointData Urban Policy Model for councils
The model provides a consistent, data-driven view of housing capacity, development potential, dwelling types, market feasibility and the likely spatial distribution of growth.
Who this is for
Councils looking to understand residential development possible in their area under current planning policy in the Planning and Design Code.
What's being delivered
Online version of PointData's Urban Policy Model tool.
About the project
The Urban Policy Model tool, developed by PointData, provides councils with:
- a shared evidence base for more realistic, transparent and defensible planning decisions
- the ability to test development scenarios, validate local assumptions and identify opportunities and constraints for future housing growth and infrastructure planning.
Project outcomes
- Sector-wide access: The Urban Policy Model tool was delivered to 48 councils, including 27 Greater Adelaide and 21 regional councils.
- Stronger planning capability: Councils gained a consistent evidence base for assessing housing capacity, development feasibility and likely growth patterns.
- Better decision-making: The model supports transparent and defensible Local Area Plans, scenario testing and infrastructure planning.
- High user satisfaction: Independent evaluation recorded an 84% satisfaction rate, with Market Realistic Uptake identified as a particularly useful output.
- Significant value for money: Central procurement generated estimated sector-wide savings of approximately $1.3 million and reduced duplicated consultancy costs.
- Long-term sector benefits: Continued use, training and technical support will build capability as councils progress regional plan implementation and Local Area Plans.
Project evaluation
The independent evaluation found an 84% satisfaction rate among respondents, with councils particularly valuing the Market Realistic Uptake outputs.
Central procurement also delivered estimated sector-wide savings of $1.3 million. This was done by reducing duplication and the need for separate consultancy engagements.
The project’s benefits will continue as councils:
- progress their Local Area Plans
- undertake local scenario testing
- plan for the infrastructure and services needed to support growth.
Ongoing training, technical support and future evaluation will help strengthen adoption and maximise long-term value across the local government sector.
Project funding
This project is funded through the Local Government Research and Development Scheme.
This scheme allocates funding to projects that support the development of SA local government. Successful applicants are decided through an annual grant round.
Find out more
If you have any questions about this project or the Research and Development Scheme, please contact:
Mathilde Thorsen
Senior Projects and Grants Coordinator
Email: mathilde.thorsen@lga.sa.gov.au