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Media Release - Minister's Office Sydney: 16 February 2009 LETTER TO THE EDITOR OF THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD Dear Editor, In response to the articles “Aged homes in fire zone” (pg 1 SMH 16/2/09) and “Evacuation concerns for retirement villages” (pg 4 SMH 16/2/09). The statement, “state planning laws give developers the ability to trump…Rural Fire Service assessments” is incorrect and misleading. State planning laws ensure proponents have their development proposals closely scrutinised by the Rural Fire Service (RFS) and other relevant Government agencies regardless of whether the consent authority is Local Council or State Government. In relation to Bushfire protection all applications are required to follow the guidelines set out in the Planning for Bushfire Protection, a document prepared by the RFS. This document includes guidelines on suitable defendable space, access considerations, vegetation management, on-site emergency arrangements water supply provisions and more. In September 2007 the NSW Government made clear, through a new planning policy, that Seniors housing developments are subject to the criteria and assessment requirements of the this document and section 100B of the Rural Fires Act 1997. Both of these documents and all of the information pertaining to the Governments safety requirements surrounding Bushfire Protection can be found simply by searching the Department of Planning’s website. As Planning Minister I will not be approving any Development, aged care or otherwise, should the Proponent not adequately address any concerns raised during the consultation process – including bush fire risks and safety. Kind regards, Kristina Keneally MP Minister for Planning © NSW Department of Planning