Earlier today a major milestone was reached in the implementation of South Australia’s new planning system, with His Excellency the Governor in Executive Council formally appointing the remaining members of the inaugural State Planning Commission.
The new members – Mr Michael Lennon, Mr Matt Davis, Ms Janet Finlay, Ms Fairlie Delbridge and Mr Allan Holmes – bring widespread expertise in urban design, construction, economics and public policy and, under the leadership of Chairperson and former Supreme Court Justice Mr Tim Anderson QC, will guide the redevelopment of the state’s planning system over the next three years.
I have been appointed as the ex officio member of the Commission.
The Commission, which will be the state’s principal assessment and advisory body responsible for implementation of the bulk of the reforms under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016, came into operation on 1 April 2017.
Reporting directly to the Minister for Planning, the Commission’s primary roles will include:
- Providing advice and recommendations on government planning policy
- Analysing and assessing upcoming development projects
- Coordinating planning with infrastructure and guidance
- Guiding local council and accredited professionals in the delivery of new planning services and community engagement.
The Commission will action several key components of the new system, which in the short term includes:
- Creating a new Community Engagement Charter
- Establishing its Governance arrangements including subcommittee structure; and
- Commencing work on the new State Planning Policies and Planning and Design Code.
Visit the State Planning Commission’s website for more information about the role of the Commission and its focus over the next few years.
