Draft legislation released by the Victorian minister for planning, Justin Madden, could allow developers to exhibit planning changes, receive submissions and present amendments to council for approval — providing they have authorization from the planning minister.
“We are now taking action to cut red tape, make the planning system more efficient and ensure it is well placed to manage planning challenges and deliver policy outcomes well into the future,” Madden said.
“The proposed reforms aim to simplify current laws, remove redundant provisions and strengthen timelines in the planning process — while maintaining liveability and helping to secure housing affordability.”
Under the draft legislation, there would be two processes for the assessment of permit applications. Low risk, low impact applications could be assessed quickly against specified performance standards or assessment criteria set out in a planning scheme. However, the CEO of the Council, or their delegate must make decisions.
Alternatively, applications could be assessed on merit with decisions being made by the responsible authority, which may be either the Council or their delegate.
Madden said the draft legislation was shaped after feedback from community organisations, government agencies, professional bodies as well as the planning and development industry, metropolitan and rural councils, and the general public.
“The proposed legislation will reduce the regulatory burden on councils and businesses. The role of local government in planning decisions will be protected, as will third party notice.
“The need for community consultation will continue, Victoria has the most extensive third party notice provisions in Australia and there is no intention to change this. Public input to proposals is an important contribution to achieving good outcomes and maintaining Victoria’s liveability.”
The legislation is available for public comment until 12 February 2010. Visit www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning
