Who can apply for a reserve lease?

You may be eligible to apply if you are a:

  • Sports club
  • Community group
  • Volunteer organisation
  • Educational organisation
  • Trust
  • Not-for-profit organisation
  • Recreational group

We assess each application to make sure the proposed use is suitable for the reserve and aligns with the purpose of the land.

How to apply

Step 1 – Complete the application form

Fill out the Reserve Lease Application Form [PDF 315 KB] and submit it to us.

After we receive your application, we will review it and contact you within approximately 14 working days.

Step 2 – Meet with Council staff

We will usually arrange a site visit or meeting to discuss:

  • Your proposed activity
  • the suitability of the reserve
  • the area you wish to use
  • any facilities or buildings required

This helps us understand your needs and assess whether the proposal is appropriate for the reserve.

Step 3 – Council assessment

We prepare a report for Council about your proposed lease.

This stage may take several months, depending on the complexity of the application and Council meeting schedules.

Step 4 – Public notification (if required)

If Council supports the proposal, we may need to publicly notify your organisation’s intention to occupy the reserve.

Public notification is generally open for at least one month.

Step 5 – Review of submissions

If we receive submissions during the public notification period:

  • We review all feedback received.
  • We provide recommendations to Council.
  • Council makes a final decision on the lease application.

If Council declines the application, we will discuss the available options with you.

H3: Step 6 – Lease agreement

If Council approves the lease:

  • We prepare the lease documentation.
  • We arrange for the lease to be signed.
  • You receive a copy of the signed agreement for your records.

Step 7 – Begin using the reserve

Once the lease is signed, you can use the reserve or building in accordance with the terms and conditions of your lease agreement.

How to get a lease on Council reserve land
A quick guide to the Council reserve lease process

Timeframes

The reserve lease process can take several months.

Typical stages include:

Stage Approximate timeframe
Application review Up to 14 working days
Assessment and Council reporting 1–2 months or longer
Public notification (if required) Minimum 1 month
Submission review and Council decision Around 2 months
Lease preparation and signing Around 2 months

Timeframes may vary depending on the proposal, legal requirements, public consultation needs, and Council meeting schedules.

What we consider

When assessing a reserve lease application, we may consider:

  • The purpose of the reserve
  • community benefit
  • environmental impacts
  • compatibility with existing reserve activities
  • access and public use
  • relevant legislation and reserve management requirements
  • long-term use of Council land

Application form

Reserve Lease Application Form

Use the Reserve Lease Application Form to start the application process. [PDF 315 KB]

Include as much information as possible about:

  • Your organisation
  • proposed activities
  • location requirements
  • buildings or facilities needed
  • expected community benefits