I did the same, paid $2000 after I received the tender, actually the 3rd revised tender. Then they drew up my plans for council, I had a LONG wait time for my land to register so it was good using that time to have the plans ready to go
We paid $2000 when we agreed on Tender, then paid the other $3500 once we signed plans.
Our demolition was approved (today) by council via DA within 2 weeks.. hoping it is a good sign with this new central coast council thing