The NSW Government has today released the final chapter in its commitment to repeal Labor’s Part 3A legislation, announcing a transparent assessment system for projects of genuine state significance.

Acting Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Don Page says the new framework will ensure all future development applications in NSW are assessed on merit and no longer vulnerable to the backroom deals characteristic of Labor.

“The Liberals and Nationals delivered on their commitment to repeal Part 3A within the first 100 days of Government and today we announce a new framework for determining projects of genuine state significance,” Mr Page said.

“The Government expects these reforms to halve the number of projects requiring state significant development approval.  This means the NSW public will have a much greater say on what occurs in their local communities.

“Under the changes: commercial, retail, residential (outside of specified urban renewal precincts) and coastal subdivision applications will be returned to local councils for assessment. Projects over $20 million will be referred to the independent Joint Regional Planning Panel for determination.

“Projects of genuine state significance will be assessed by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure and there will be two distinct avenues for determination.

“State Significant Development (including large-scale industrial, resource and other proposals), will be determined by the independent Planning and Assessment Commission (PAC) at arm’s length from the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure.

“State Significant Infrastructure applications by public agencies (including roads, railways and pipelines) will generally be determined by the Minister with the PAC determining projects proposed by the private sector.

“The Department of Planning and Infrastructure will determine non-contentious proposals where there are fewer than 25 public objections and no objection from the local council. The PAC will also determine any applications accompanied by a political donation disclosure.

“The Government is determined to rebuild confidence in NSW and this new framework is a critical step forward,” Mr Page said.
 
“Today heralds a new era of transparency and integrity in decision making - with community consultation at the core of all future plans.”