A specific assessment system has been created in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act to make planning decisions on projects classed as State significant infrastructure (SSI).
Major infrastructure proposals, in particular linear infrastructure such as roads, railway lines or pipes which often cross a number of council boundaries, will generally be considered as SSI. Development which doesn’t require consent but which could have a significant environmental impact, such as a port facility or major water supply system, is also likely to be considered as SSI.
A full list of SSI development types can be found in Schedule 3 of the State and Regional Development SEPP.
SSI projects are assessed by the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure, with input sought from local government, other NSW Government agencies and the community as part of the assessment process.