Released 21/09/2022
The ACT Government will mark a significant milestone in its Planning System Review and Reform Project today when the Planning Bill 2022 is introduced to the Legislative Assembly.
Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said the legislation is the cornerstone of the ACT’s new planning system.
“We have been working on an ambitious vision for the ACT’s planning system for some time, which we re-committed to in the Parliamentary and Governing Agreement. This Bill is the first step in delivering a planning system that will make our city an even better place to live while protecting the environment,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The Planning Bill 2022 proposes a range of changes to the structure and function of our planning system and incorporates more than 300 pieces of industry and community feedback shared with us earlier this year.
“Alongside streamlining Territory Plan Variation and Development Application processes, the Bill introduces a new tier within the planning system – district strategies.
“The nine district strategies will recognise that the needs of residents and businesses differ across the Territory. In the reformed planning system, they will protect and promote the unique character, aspirations and values of each area in the ACT.
“Further, under this Bill, a new entity – the Territory Planning Authority – will be created to replace the existing ACT planning and land authority.
“The Bill recognises the importance of ecologically sustainable development and introduces the use of Traditional Custodian knowledge and culture into planning,” Minister Gentleman said.
“And it adapts the current ministerial call-in power for development applications into a power to declare proposals as Territory Priority Projects. This will increase transparency and accountability.
“The focus is on creating a planning system that’s easier to use, more flexible and provides proponents with more certainty, as we respond to the challenges of climate change and population growth.”
The Planning Bill paves the way for two other major reform items including nine new district strategies and a new Territory Plan, which are expected to be released for community engagement before the end of the year.
To review the summary of changes between the current and proposed legislation, including changes arising from consultation on the draft Bill, visit the Planning Review and Reform YourSay Page.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases