Reverend Miao You yesterday confirmed a DA had been lodged for the 11.6ha site donated by Wollongong City Council in 2001.
Interested parties can attend a community information and feedback session about the master plan this weekend.
The Fo Guang Shan International Buddhist Order only recently finalised its long-term plans for a college and museum on a former gravel quarry and rubbish tip directly across the freeway from the existing temple, which will be linked by a pedestrian link bridge.
Ultimately, the development is likely to include administration, academic, teaching and student services, a library, auditorium and museum, as well as indoor sport, retail and dining facilities and student accommodation.