A more transparent approach: Environmental Planning and Assessment Bill 2017 passes NSW Parliament

New South Wales is adopting greater transparency in its planning rules with the passing of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Bill. The Bill was passed by both houses of Parliament on 15 November 2017 and is currently awaiting Royal assent. The Bill was passed without amendment meaning the new provisions will come into force in the same form they appeared in the Bill as originally introduced.

SUMMARY

Key amendments include:

1. new mandatory community participation requirements;
2. increased focus on strategic planning, with the introduction of local strategic planning statements (LSPS);
3. mandatory notification requirements in relation to development consents and approvals;