Page 1265 - Week 04 - Thursday, 7 April 2016
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concurrent process must always include a development application, and if so it is called a concurrent DA. While the DA is dependent on other concurrent processes, those processes are not dependent on the concurrent DA.
The concurrent process potentially brings together three planning processes for notification after which those processes split off to complete the normal legislated processes. The concurrent process must be completed before the concurrent DA can be decided. It all starts with the DA and ends with the DA.
New section 147AB provides the administrative means to notify the concurrent DA and concurrent documents together at the one time. The section does not change what or how the notification is required to be made; rather, it requires the notice for consultation to include additional information relative to the concurrent process. Of course the total consultation period is 35 days, which is greater than any of the individual components but much less than if they had been done separately.
New section 147AC deals with representations or comments about concurrent documents. Again, the new section does not change in any way the ability to make a representation or comment: if a right exists now, that right continues. Further comments and representations are managed in exactly the same way as they are now: if they are published or otherwise available now they will be published or made available in exactly the same way.
New section 147AD deals with what happens with a concurrent DA if a concurrent document is refused, rejected or withdrawn. Again following the hierarchy of planning documents, the concurrent DA must be refused if it is not withdrawn.
There is only one other clause that I would like to speak to: clause 38, because it deals with concurrent DAs and entity referrals. Clause 38 inserts a new section 151A—effect of advice by referral entity for concurrent developments—that maintains the principles that apply now for any referral. The entity advice must not be inconsistent with any earlier advice unless new information comes to light.
There are other amendments also related to the new concurrent DA processes, but I will not speak to these individually. I would like, however, to say that the amendments proposed for chapter 8—environmental impact statements and inquiries—follow on in a similar way to those at chapter 7—that is, what happens now continues to happen, it just happens at the same time.
The bill proposes a progressive approach to administrative efficiencies and reduction in red tape and does so in a considered and well-balanced way. Madam Speaker, I wholeheartedly support the bill and commend it to the Assembly.
MR GENTLEMAN (Brindabella—Minister for Planning and Land Management, Minister for Racing and Gaming and Minister for Workplace Safety and Industrial Relations) (11.37), in reply: I thank members for their input into this important bill. I would like to go through some of the key concepts of the bill and benefits to individuals, the community and the building and construction sector. I will try not to be repetitive of other members’ comments, but it is important, I think, that, in summing up as the minister, these be put forward.
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