More than 300 Local Government, State and Territory Governments, industry groups, private sector and community groups took part in the first stage of a consultation into Australia’s planning system during May.
Participants shared their views on the Draft Leading Practice Model for Development Assessment (draft Model DA) which aims to improve consistency in planning and development practices across Australia.
The Draft Leading Practice Model for Development Assessment was produced by the Centre for Developing Cities at the University of Canberra. It was commissioned by the Development Assessment Forum (DAF), set up by the Federal Government
The model has drawn fire from many Local Government bodies including the ALGA. The consultants have now completed the first stage of the national consultation, visiting every capital city over the past fortnight to conduct information sessions on the model.
“The draft Model DA is the starting point for discussion on a possible new system,” said DAF Chair, Peter Verwer.
To do this it is imperative that all individuals and groups who have an interest in the planning process contribute in this consultation. The consultation is being conducted by Melbourne based public relations consultancy, Socom Account Director, Troy Edwards, said that many Local Governments, particularly in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia have begun to engage in the debate and participate in the consultation.
“We encourage councils, developers, industry groups, community groups and individuals that have not taken part to date to get involved in the next round of consultation sessions taking place in June,” he said. “If they are unable to attend a session we are inviting written submissions until 30 June 2004.
“The consultations are showing the distance between the three spheres of government on planning issues. We need to work through these issues and a lot of misunderstandings between the various sectors.”
The next round of the consultation is involving focus group sessions in each capital city throughout June. These reports and detail on session locations, times and dates are available on the Internet at www.socompr.com.au/daconsultation or telephone (03) 9349 1099.
Written submissions should be sent to Development Assessment Consultation, C/-Socom, Level 2, 19–21 Argyle Place South, Carlton, VIC 3053 and are due by 5.00pm EST on 30 June 2004.
