The Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage has issued guidelines for community infrastructure funding, offering greater transparency on costs, timing and delivery.
In a statement, the Department said the mechanism for funding community infrastructure had been updated to address concerns about a lack of consistency and transparency in the system.
It said the policy changes included clarifying what was considered community infrastructure, and what could be included in a development contribution plan.
There was now a requirement that a development contribution plan be advertised concurrently with, or within six months of, structure plan approval,
The Department said there would be a three-year transition period to amend existing development contribution plans without a nominated lifespan or review period to address priorities for the delivery of community infrastructure.
Minister for Planning, Rita Saffioti said people wanted access to good quality community facilities and local amenities in their neighbourhoods.
“Whether that’s a park around the corner with a playground for the kids to visit after school and a place to exercise the dogs, good cycle paths or a recreation centre, we want to ensure these facilities are considered when the community is being planned,” Ms Saffioti said.
“This policy establishes a fairer, more consistent and transparent approach to how community infrastructure is funded, providing clear guidance to both the development sector and Local Government on their roles and responsibilities.”
The policy can be accessed on the Department’s website at this PS News link.
