The construction of new and upgraded education facilities across the State is to be fast-tracked as the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) cuts red tape for schools, TAFE colleges and universities.
Announced by Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes, the changes remove the need for lengthy approvals for smaller scale projects.
Mr Stokes said the changes would allow for two-storey buildings to be constructed at existing education facilities under strict conditions without the need for a development application and allow smaller schools and student housing to be determined by Councils or regional planning panels, rather than the State.
“New and upgraded facilities at schools, TAFEs and universities can be fast-tracked if they meet strict standards under our updated rules,” he said.
“Speeding up the planning process means we can get shovels in the ground and new classrooms up and running.”
“Importantly the changes will not compromise on existing building codes and safety standards.”
Mr Stokes said guidelines had also been updated for child care centres, to ensure Councils took the character and heritage of a neighbourhood into consideration when deciding on new child care centres.
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning, Sarah Mitchell welcomed the changes, saying that students and teachers would be able to access updated and new learning facilities faster.
