The Property Council today welcomed the release of Major Projects Legislation for public comment. Executive Director, Brian Wightman said that any efforts to streamline applications and approvals in Tasmania should be welcomed.
“The new Major Projects Legislation will support the recent progress made in delivering the Tasmanian Planning Scheme.
“It is undeniable that Tasmania requires significant planning reform to ensure that much needed investment and development is delivered without delay,” he said.
The Tasmanian Division acknowledged particular aspects of the proposed legislation as essential.
“Ministerial call in powers, early in-principle support and a clear role for the Coordinator General are excellent improvements on the current, un-tested Projects of Regional Significance Legislation.
“We remain hopeful, that the proposed legislation will provide a sophisticated framework for assessing complex investment projects,” he said.
Mr Wightman also encouraged the State Government to implement Joint Development Assessment Panels like many other states across the country.
“The implementation of JDAPS should be the next reform on table for the State Government.
“The Property Council has a long maintained view that complex planning processes have become politicised by the local government sector.
“Bringing together experts combined with representatives from local government would provide a circuit-breaker, enabling independent decision making based upon economic, social, environmental and design considerations,” he said.