What is Subdivision of Land or Subdividing Land?
In simplest terms, subdividing land is the process of taking a large swath of property and cutting it into smaller plots. Each piece of land has its own land title, which means you can then do what you want with them – you can sell the vacant land, develop it then sell it, build on it and rent out the property, or hold on to it for later.
However, it’s not as easy as putting up a fence and calling it a day. There are a lot of steps involved. And all subdivisions aren’t the same. The type of subdivision you decide on depends on your individual situation and goals. However, these are the 4 most common types in Australia:
1. Torrens Title Subdivision
This is the most straightforward and common form of subdivision. A single block of land is divided into two or more lots, each with its own freehold (Torrens Title). The lots are completely independent and do not share any common property.
🔑 Ideal for: residential developments, knockdown rebuilds, or selling vacant land plots.
2. Strata Subdivision
Used mainly for apartments, duplexes, and townhouses, a strata subdivision creates individual titles for each unit while sharing ownership of common property such as driveways, gardens, or parking areas.
🔑 Ideal for: multi-dwelling buildings or small townhouse complexes.
3. Stratum Subdivision
Stratum subdivisions are used for mixed-use developments (e.g., commercial on the ground floor, residential above). Each section has its own Torrens Title, which can then be further subdivided via strata if required.
🔑 Ideal for: mixed-use retail/residential developments.
4. Community Title Subdivision
This applies to developments like gated communities, new housing estates, or private precincts. Each lot owner has a separate title, but there is a shared community title for common assets like swimming pools, parks, or roads.
🔑 Ideal for: lifestyle estates or developments with shared facilities.
Why Subdivide Land?
Property owners choose to subdivide for many reasons:
- 💰 Increase land value by creating additional saleable lots
- 🏗️ Enable future development (homes, townhouses, commercial)
- 🏘️ Build and retain dwellings for rental income
- 📈 Maximise return from underused or large parcels of land
Whether you’re a developer looking to build multiple homes or a homeowner seeking to split your block for resale, subdivisions and subdividing your land can provide you with flexibility and financial control.
Steps to Subdivide Land in NSW
Subdivision is a multi-step process. While the specifics may vary by Council, here’s a general overview of what’s involved:
- Feasibility Assessment – Engage a land professional (like a planner or project manager) to assess if your land can be subdivided under local planning controls.
- Detail & Level Survey – Hire a reputable Registered Surveyor (like C&A Surveyors) to carry out a survey and prepare accurate site data for planning and design.
- Design Plans & Reports – Work with professionals such as architects and engineers to prepare any required drawings or reports (or engage a project manager to coordinate this for you).
- Lodge DA or CDC – Submit your development application to Council or via a Private Certifier.
- Receive Development Approval – Once approved, you’ll receive your DA or CDC with conditions of consent.
- Construction & Certification – Begin works (if applicable), and prepare any Construction Certificate (CC) or Notice to Commence.
- Final Survey & Plan Registration – After construction, a Registered Surveyor prepares final subdivision plans for NSW Land Registry Services (LRS) lodgement and registration.
How C&A Surveyors Can Help you with the Land Subdivision Process
At C&A Surveyors, we’ve helped hundreds of clients across Sydney, Newcastle, the Hunter and Central Coast successfully navigate the land subdivision process, because subdividing your land isn’t always simple.
We can assist you from the very first feasibility stage through to final plan registration — making the process smooth, clear, and stress-free. Our in-house Registered Surveyors provide:
- ✅ Detail & boundary identification surveys
- ✅ Subdivision plans
- ✅ Peg-out surveys and set-outs
- ✅ Council-ready documentation
- ✅ LRS registration support
Thinking About Subdividing Your Land?
Whether you’re looking to create long-term value or take on your next development, C&A Surveyors is here to help. We combine fast turnarounds, personalised service, and industry expertise to make subdivision easy.
📞 Call us on (02) 9167 0209 or request a free quote online to get started.
Why Choose C&A Surveyors To Help With Subdividing Your Land?
When accuracy, timing, and compliance matter, C&A Surveyors is your trusted partner. Here’s what sets us apart:
- ⭐ 4.9-star rating on Google with over 200 reviews
- 📐 In-house Registered Surveyors for legal compliance
- 🛠️ Experience with builders, developers, and councils
- 🧑💼 Dedicated point of contact for easy communication
- ⚙️ Three-tier quality assurance process on all survey data
Thinking About Subdividing Your Land?
Whether you’re looking to create long-term value or take on your next development, C&A Surveyors is here to help. We combine fast turnarounds, personalised service, and industry expertise to make subdivision easy.
📞 Call us on (02) 9167 0209 or request a free quote online to get started.
