16 Dec Government Policy and Regulatory Advice

Planning and environmental policy and regulatory frameworks are subject to ongoing review and development to balance effective regulation with needs and interests of industry and the community. EME Advisory helps government agencies modernise frameworks, refine guidelines and improve internal processes to strengthen the planning system. Our work spans statutory guidance, quality assurance and governance reform – linking legislative intent with practical implementation to deliver policies that are consistent, credible and fit for purpose.

Project Highlights

Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) – Guideline Reviews

Prepared and reviewed key assessment guidance for the NSW planning system, including the State Significant Project Guidelines, Cumulative Impact Assessment Guidelines and Registered Environmental Assessment Practitioner Guidelines. EME also undertook a review of 20 major project EISs to identify areas of assessment practice that could be improved with the objective of improving the overall quality of EISs. 

DPHI – SSD Modifications

EME Advisory undertook a case study led review of modifications to State significant development consents to establish the causes or triggers for modifications and to make recommendations to reduce the number of modifications. This involved a case study review and engagement with project applicants to identify issues. Key recommendations focused on building flexibility into the application and consent system and examining the role of certifiers in assessing consistency of construction drawings with approved site plans.

DPHI – Assessment Practice Review

EME Advisory has provided input to regulatory and assessment guidance in response to regulatory reforms and emerging areas of assessment practice. This included:

• Preparation of a Noise Guide to support interpretation of when extension of business operating hours could be undertaken as exempt development, in response to changes to the Codes SEPP
• Preparation of a Complying Development to explain changes to the complying development provisions for Industry and Business in the Codes SEPP
• Preparation of internal assessment guidance for assessment officers for two areas of emerging assessment practice: aged care homes and cemeteries.

DPHI Crown Lands – Landowner’s Consent Review

Reviewed the process for granting landowner’s consent for domestic waterfront structures under the Crown Land Management Act 2016 and Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. EME’s work clarified statutory responsibilities and established criteria for a more flexible, transparent and efficient approach consistent with public land management principles.