NSW Govt accelerates DA assessment process

Criteria to progress projects through a fast-tracked assessment process have been released by the NSW Government, along with details of the first tranche of accelerated assessments. 

The criteria form part of the state government’s Planning System Acceleration Program to keep the economy moving, and were formulated by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) after consultations with other stakeholders.

A probity advisor will continue to oversee and report on the fast-tracked assessment process to ensure it is transparent and robust.

In another initiative to cut planning red tape and support renewable energy projects, the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 has been amended to  allow larger-scale solar systems to be installed on homes and commercial buildings without council approval.

In related news, the McGowan Government has reduced the number of Development Assessment Panels in Western Australia from nine to five in line with its planning reform “action plan”.

Development Assessment Panels (DAPs) are unique to WA, and intended to enhance planning expertise and decision-making with technical advice and local knowledge.

The new five-panel configuration will comprise the City of Perth; Metro Inner-North; Metro Inner-South; Metro Outer; and Regional.

The new boundaries, which took effect from April 27, will not affect the role of local government membership. Measures have been put in place to ensure continuity of local representation and management of existing applications.