Development sector welcomes finalised planning bill

South Australia’s development sector has welcomed today’s finalisation of the Planning Development and Infrastructure Bill 2015.

Urban Development Institute of Australia (SA) Executive Director Pat Gerace says the industry is pleased the Bill was finally passed in Parliament this morning.

“The final Bill includes some excellent improvements including a long-awaited e-planning system that will help pave the way for future growth in South Australia,” said Mr Gerace. 

“The UDIA is also pleased that other significant reforms have passed, particularly around infrastructure. We have spent a number of years talking to the State Government about these changes and we are now looking forward to them unlocking new investment for infrastructure much quicker than before.”

However, a major part of the Bill not supported by the UDIA was the implementation of an urban growth boundary.

“The UDIA has written to the Minister seeking assurances on the criteria for the Commission created in the Bill that will review the new boundary, otherwise known as Environment and Food Protection Areas,” said Mr Gerace.

“We remain concerned at the very broad criteria specified in the Act which has been introduced for a Commission to consider. We want to make sure that real housing choice is not compromised through limiting to just one type, while affordability is a non-negotiable criteria.”

Mr Gerace said many details still need to be finalised and the UDIA looks forward to continuing to work with the Government to ensure there is meaningful and comprehensive engagement with the development sector.

Established in 1971, the UDIA (SA) represents the interests of the development industry in
South Australia in collaboration with all levels of government. It represents all sections of the urban development sector, including developers, councils and service providers such as engineers, planners and surveyors. For more information, visit www.udiasa.com.au.

FURTHER INFORMATION: Please contact
UDIA (SA) Executive Director Pat Gerace on 0417 811 621

ISSUED BY HUGHES PUBLIC RELATIONS: Please contact
Kieran Hall on 0422 147 151 or kieran@hughespr.com.au