Current situation
- The state building codes and planning process are set by the state and federal governments, which Council is required to follow.
- Council plays a key role in assisting residents through this process, assessing plans against planning rules, and ensuring building work complies with the state Building Act and associated regulations.
The issue
- The planning and building process can be complex and difficult to navigate, with multiple steps, codes, rules, and legislation to follow.
- Planning schemes are not always clear-cut and may require discretionary judgement, creating grey areas where reasonable professionals may disagree.
- Councils enforce the Building Code to ensure safety and compliance, but many requirements rely on professional interpretation rather than fixed rules.
My plan
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Designate dedicated planning and building navigators within Council to guide residents through the approval process to provide
- a single point of contact who explains requirements and supports applicants from start to finish;
- objective and neutral guidance when rules are open to interpretation, helping them understand the costs and benefits of different options and seeking solutions that minimise expenses wherever possible.
- Update the Council website to provide clear and concise information on the planning and building process, making it easy for residents to navigate and find what they need.
- Council preferences and policies that are used to advise residents are developed through close collaboration with the community, with the pros and cons clearly identified and transparently communicated.
The benefits
- Reduces stress and confusion by providing residents with clear guidance and support through the complex planning and building process.
- Improves transparency by helping residents understand how decisions are made and why certain options are recommended.
- Helps residents save time and money by avoiding unnecessary delays or expenses.
- Incentivises sustainable and appropriate new development and improves existing properties.