NSW has an updated, modern planning system that is simpler, faster and designed to ensure high quality decision and planning outcomes for the people of NSW.
The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 has been updated and is the culmination of the biggest overhaul of the Act since the legislation’s inception almost 40 years ago.
The new Act follows the passing of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Act 2017 in the NSW Parliament in November 2017. It will commence on 1 March 2018 with most of the changes coming into effect from this date. Others will take longer to come into effect as they require further guidance and consultation.
The new Act strengthens building regulation and certification procedures to ensure quality and safety.
New community participation plans will need to be prepared by all planning authorities.
The new Act is easier to navigate, understand and it has 10 principal parts, with all provisions decimal numbered.
The new Act allows applicants to request an internal review from council of a decision about integrated development.
The Act recognises the critical role of councils in strategic planning for their local area.
