NSW Department of Planning and Environment
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Delivering the Plan

Implementation Plan

The Far West Regional Plan 2036 is the NSW Government's strategy for guiding land use planning decisions for the Far West Region for the next 20 years.

The Far West region consists of eight local government areas: Balranald, Brewarrina, Bourke, Broken Hill, Central Darling, Cobar, Walgett and Wentworth. The Unincorporated Area is also located within the Far West region.

 

The Regional Plan sets out three goals for the Far West Region:

  • A diverse economy with efficient transport and infrastructure networks;
  • Exceptional semi-arid range lands traversed by the Barwon-Darling River; and
  • Strong and connected communities.

 

The NSW Government has established new governance arrangements to oversee the implementation of the vision, goals and actions in the Regional Plan and the release of an annual monitoring report.

 

Purpose

Responsibility for implementing actions and monitoring the intended outcomes in the Regional Plan is shared with our important regional stakeholders, including Councils, other State agencies, service providers and the development industry. All stakeholders need to have a good understanding of the priorities and the deliverables.

 

The purpose of this Implementation Plan is to:

  • ensure ongoing collaboration and agreement on the implementation of actions;
  • assign accountabilities for the implementation of actions;
  • explain the role of different groups and committees involved in implementation;
  • guide the Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee in its role of overseeing delivery of the Regional Plan; and
  • inform the Annual Monitoring Report.
Implementation

Goals, directions and actions

The Regional Plan comprises three goals, 30 directions and 139 actions. The goals articulate the intended outcome; the directions identify the broad issues or policy areas that we need to focus on and the actions represent the steps we need to take or initiatives we need to introduce/ implement to achieve the goals. Actions are either implemented as strategies or as initiatives.

 

The NSW Government has identified a lead agency and relevant partner stakeholders for each action. The lead agency is responsible for project managing the various tasks required to ensure success. Key stakeholders are those agencies, councils or organisations considered important partners for implementation. The list of partners is not exclusive and additional stakeholders may be identified as implementation progresses.

 

Indicative timings for actions are as follows:

  • Immediate – 0-2 years;
  • Short term – 3-5 years;
  • Medium term – 5-10 years;
  • Long term – 10+ years.

Some actions are also designated as ‘ongoing’ to reflect their delivery being achieved through Local Environmental Plans, local planning strategies and other land use planning that is required to be consistent with the Regional Plan.

 

Each action in the Regional Plan will be implemented through a mix of mechanisms that reflect a range of ongoing strategies and initiatives that will deliver on the vision and directions in the Plan, including:

 

Strategies:

  • Local planning directions issued under Section 9.1 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 by the Minister for Planning that ensure council planning strategies and controls are consistent with the vision and guiding principles of the Regional Plan;
  • Integrated planning and reporting under the Local Government Act 1993; and
  • Whole-of-government policy alignment

 

Progress on delivering these actions will be reviewed as part of any review or adjustment to the Regional Plan.

 

Initiatives:

  • Matters that require partnership between Councils and the NSW Government;
  • Publication of reports or data; and
  • Regional collaboration across government, business, key stakeholders and the wider community for specific projects and processes.
Priority actions for 2017-2019

Priorities for the Far West are growing and diversifying the economy, protecting environmental assets, providing efficient transport and infrastructure networks, and developing strong, resilient and connected communities. Actions to support these outcomes represent the immediate areas of focus. 

10 priority actions have been identified for implementation in 2017–2019. These actions respond to strong representations made in feedback to the draft Regional Plan or are areas where initial investigations or planning are required. These priorities will be overseen by the Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee and will require a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, councils and stakeholders. 

  1. Promote agribusiness diversification by reviewing local plans and removing planning barriers.
  2. Develop and implement land management arrangements to ensure continuity of supply for the emerging goat industry.
  3. Align local land use and tourism strategies with the relevant Destination Management Plan.
  4. Identify the regional freight network (including key national, State, regional and local roads and the rail network).
  5. Prepare and implement a waterfront management strategy for the Murray River.
  6. Undertake modelling with local communities to better understand the implications and factors contributing to population change.
  7. Work with stakeholders, including Aboriginal housing providers and prescribed body corporates, to identify opportunities for social and affordable housing options to meet the distinct cultural needs of Aboriginal communities.
  8. Conduct a pilot project to progressively improve mineral claims process around Lightning Ridge.
  9. Support pilot projects and opportunities that empower Aboriginal people to develop tourism businesses as a means of increasing economic participation on country.
  10. Work with the Local Aboriginal Land Councils to identify landholdings and map the level of constraint for each site at a strategic scale to develop options for the potential commercial use of the land.
Governance

Effective governance arrangements are critical to successful delivery.

Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee

The Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee has been established to oversee and coordinate the implementation of the Regional Plan and brings together the agencies and organisations responsible for delivering the majority of the proposed outcomes under the Regional Plan. The focus of the  Committee is implementation of the Regional Plan.

Representation on this Committee is about engaging relevant and operations-focused people from agencies and organisations responsible for delivering the majority of proposed outcomes under the Regional Plan.

The role of the Committee is to:

  • oversee and coordinate the implementation of the Regional Plan;
  • provide accountability for delivery of the Regional Plan;
  • be kept informed of general progress and participate in delivery of priority actions;
  • monitor and track the progress of implementing the Regional Plan;
  • where impediments are identified, collaborate for resolution;
  • provide a forum to discuss and resolve implementation issues or action delivery in a changing regional policy environment;
  • provide high-level progress updates to the Far West Regional Leadership Executive (via the Department of Premier and Cabinet);
  • inform the preparation of the Annual Monitoring Report; and
  • inform and participate in a five-year review of the Regional Plan.

Committee membership includes:

  • Department of Planning and Environment
  • Council representatives
  • Department of Premier and Cabinet
  • Department of Industry
  • Transport for NSW

Supporting Groups

The Committee can be supported by outcome specific groups that bring together appropriate personnel (government, industry or community) to provide advice on particular issues or projects.

Existing governance framework

It is important to recognise the existing broader governance framework in operation within the region to ensure the Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee complements current activity. 

The Far West Regional Leadership Executive, which is a Department of Premier and Cabinet led initiative, is a body that supports close working relationships between NSW Government agencies and the Joint Organisation of Councils. The network encourages strategic collaboration, consultation, solution brokerage and engagement on regional priorities across government. 

The Committee benefits from having access to the same agency and local government organisations that comprise the Regional Leadership Executive. This is particularly important where the NSW Government ‘Fit for the Future’ reforms are changing the way Government works with councils on local priorities.

Links to other strategies

The NSW Government has in place, or is developing, a number of other strategies that will influence the implementation of the Regional Plan, including the Western Regional Transport Plan and Newell Highway Corridor Strategy. Corridor strategies are also being developed for other key roads in the Far West, including the Sturt, Kamilaroi and Mitchell highways, and the Kidman Way. 

The Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee will have a role in ensuring that there is appropriate coordination across the implementation of these strategies. This applies particularly to those strategies that address housing, growth and infrastructure. It is anticipated that these strategies will complement the focus on growth in the Regional Plan.

Figure 1: Regional Governance Framework

far west implementation plan figure 1 regional governance framework 400x212 

Review mechanisms

Annual Monitoring Report

An Annual Monitoring Report will be prepared to monitor progress on implementation of the Regional Plan. This will report progress on goals, directions and actions, with a particular focus on the priorities that have been agreed with the Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee. It will also list achievements and important regional highlights from the year.
Implementation priorities will be revised and a new program for work will be identified for each subsequent year.

Regional Plan Review

The Regional Plan will be subject to a five-yearly review, or as necessary, to update and revise the strategies provided through the goals, directions and actions. A five-yearly review will revisit regional performance, challenges and opportunities and incorporate the most up-to date information provided through the census process. The review of the Regional Plan will be informed by the Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee as well as the Annual Monitoring Reports. 

Implementation Plan

The priorities identified in this Implementation Plan will be updated on an annual basis and will form the work program for each subsequent year. This will ensure that implementation of the Regional Plan remains current and responsive to regional conditions.

Far West Regional Plan Actions
Direction 1: Grow the agribusiness sector, value-added manufacturing opportunities and supply chains
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
1.1 Promote agribusiness diversification by reviewing local plans and removing planning barriers. DPE DOI, Council Immediate initiative
1.2 Facilitate investment in the agricultural supply chain by protecting freight and logistics facilities from conflicting land use and the encroachment of incompatible land uses. Council DOI, DPE Ongoing strategy
1.3 Promote investment in value-added manufacturing in employment lands through suitable land use zonings and land use definitions in local environmental plans. DPE Council Short term initiative
1.4 Encourage co-location of related advanced and value-added manufacturing industries to maximise efficiency and infrastructure use, decrease supply chain costs, minimise land use conflict, increase economies of scale and attract further investment.  Council DPE Ongoing strategy
1.5 Develop and implement land management arrangements to ensure continuity of supply for the emerging goat industry. DOI LLS, Council Immediate initiative
1.6 Promote the sustainable management of kangaroo populations by investigating potential economic opportunities associated with harvesting and processing through policy and legislative mechanisms.
 DOI Council, OEH, DPC Ongoing initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 2: Protect productive agricultural land and plan for greater land use compatibility
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
2.1 Undertake targeted mapping to identify important agricultural land in local land use strategies and local plans. DOI
 DPE, Council
 Short term initiative
2.2 Manage the interface between agricultural lands and other land uses to minimise land use incompatibility and fragmentation. Council
 DPE, DOI Ongoing strategy
2.3 Appropriately zone irrigated land and land with potential for irrigation purposes to minimise inappropriate development and land use incompatibility. Council
 DOI, DPE Ongoing strategy
2.4 Minimise biosecurity risks by undertaking risk assessments, taking into account biosecurity plans and applying appropriate buffer areas when assessing the potential impacts of new development. Council
 DOI Ongoing strategy
2.5 Implement the NSW Government’s Agriculture Industry Action Plan – Primed for growth: Investing locally, connecting globally. Council
 DOI, DPE Short term initiative
2.6 Develop local strategies to limit urban and rural housing development in agricultural and extractive resource areas, industrial areas and transport corridors.
 Council
 DOI, DPE Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 3: Sustainably manage mineral resources
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
3.1 Work with Councils to implement a modelling tool to understand servicing needs and opportunities for communities to better capture the economic benefits of mining, and help communities plan for the implications of mining. DPE
 DOI, DPC, Council
 Medium term initiative
3.2 Consult with the Division of Resources and Geoscience when assessing applications for land use changes (strategic land use planning, rezoning and planning proposals) and new development or expansion.  Council
 DRG, DPE Ongoing strategy
3.3 Protect areas of mineral and energy resources potential through local land use strategies and local environmental plans.
 Council
 DRG, DPE Ongoing strategy
3.4 Protect infrastructure that facilitates mining industries, such as road and rail freight routes, and energy transmission networks, including gas pipelines, from development that could affect current or future extraction.
 Council
 TfNSW, DRG, DPE Ongoing strategy
3.5 Support communities that are transitioning out of mining operations and help them to plan for new economic opportunities.
 DPC (Mining Taskforce)
 DOI, DPE, Council Long term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 4: Diversify energy supply through renewable energy generation
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
4.1 Identify areas and project sites with renewable energy potential, and infrastructure corridors with access to the electricity network, to inform land use planning.
 DPE
 Council, DOI
 Short term initiative
4.2 Promote best practice community engagement to realise community benefits for all utility-scale renewable energy projects.
 DPE
 Council, DOI
 Ongoing strategy
4.3 Facilitate small-scale renewable energy projects using bioenergy, solar, wind, small-scale hydro, geothermal or other innovative storage technologies through local environment plans.
 Council
 DOI Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 5: Promote tourism opportunities
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
5.1 Implement Destination NSW’s Draft Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2017 – 2020 when finalised. Destination NSW
 Council, DCONSW Ongoing initiative
5.2 Expand Aboriginal Export Ready Tour Products by partnering with relevant stakeholders. Destination NSW
 Council, LALC, AANSW, DCONSW
 Medium term strategy
5.3 Consult with native title holders, particularly prescribed body corporates, to determine how land subject to native title rights may be utilised in the tourism sector. NPWS
 Prescribed Body Corporates, LALC
 Ongoing strategy
5.4 Implement the Line of Lode Redevelopment Strategy.
 DOI
 Council, DPC Ongoing initiative
5.5 Improve access and infrastructure for the tourism sector, focusing on all-weather transport routes. TfNSW
 Council, DPE
 Ongoing strategy
5.6 Investigate development of a regional tourism trail between Balranald, Wentworth, Mallee Cliffs, Mungo and Yanga floodplains; and between White Cliffs, Menindee, Tibooburra and Silverton. Council
 DCONSW, DPC Medium term initiative
5.7 Investigate development of a Far West Sculpture Trail encompassing sites at Broken Hill, Mutawintji, White Cliffs and Wilcannia. Council
 DCONSW, DPC
 Medium term initiative
5.8 Align local land use and tourism strategies with the relevant Destination Management Plan. Council
 DCONSW, DPE
 Immediate initiative
5.9 Identify opportunities for tourism and associated land uses in local plans. Council
 DCONSW, DPE
 Short term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 6: Unlock economic potential through improved freight transport infrastructure
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
6.1 Identify the regional freight network (including key national, State, regional and local roads and the rail network). Council
 TfNSW, DPE
 Immediate initiative
6.2 Investigate and prioritise Council-identified projects to address impediments to the regional freight network and improve capacity and opportunities in the network. TfNSW
 Council
 Ongoing initiative
6.3 Identify, coordinate and prioritise the delivery of local and regional projects forming part of the regional freight network. Council
 TfNSW, DPE
 Short term initiative
6.4 Locate freight and logistics facilities to capitalise on connections to external markets, maximise the use of existing infrastructure and support future industrial development. Council
 TfNSW, DPE
 Ongoing strategy
6.5 Prepare a regional economic development strategy that drives economic growth opportunities by identifying key enabling infrastructure and other policy interventions to unlock growth. DPC DPE, Councils Medium term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 7: Improve regional air connections
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
7.1 Protect airports and airfields from the encroachment of incompatible development.
 Council
 DPE, TfNSW Ongoing strategy
7.2 Support the continued allocation of 20 per cent of flight slots at Sydney Airport to regional NSW services and seek greater allocation in peak periods.
 TfNSW
 DPC
 Ongoing strategy
7.3 Work with stakeholders to investigate and prioritise projects to expand the capacity of Broken Hill Airport.
 Council
 TfNSW, DPC
 Ongoing initiative
7.4 Investigate opportunities to leverage economic growth in the Far West from proximity to Mildura Airport.
 Council
 DPC
 Medium term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 8: Enhance access to telecommunications
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
8.1 Identify options to improve access to shared telecommunication and internet services, including public access to services at community centres and schools.
 Council
 Infrastructure providers, Education
 Short term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 9: Sustainably manage water resources for economic opportunities
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
9.1 Focus high-security water use industries in locations with appropriate water access. Council
 DOI, DPE
 Ongoing strategy
9.2 Enhance the productive capacity of land in irrigation areas by limiting encroachment of inappropriate and incompatible land uses. Council
 DOI, DPE
 Ongoing strategy
9.3 Consult with native title holders and prescribed body corporates as a part of determining water management policy. DOI
 Prescribed Body Corporates, LALC
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 10: Enhance the economic self-determination of Aboriginal communities
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
10.1 Work with the Local Aboriginal Land Councils to identify landholdings and map the level of constraint for each site at a strategic scale to develop options for the potential commercial use of the land. DPE
 LALC, NSW Aboriginal Affairs
 Immediate initiative
10.2 Identify priority sites that can create a pipeline of potential projects that the Local Aboriginal Land Councils may wish to consider. DPE LALC, NSW Aboriginal Affairs
 Medium term initiative
10.3 Support pilot projects and opportunities that empower Aboriginal people to develop tourism businesses as a means of increasing economic participation on country. NPWS
 Council
 Ongoing initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 11: Support new planning and land management arrangements
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
11.1 Prepare a local plan for the Unincorporated Area.
 DPE
 DOI, OEH
 Short term initiative
11.2 Conduct a pilot project to progressively improve the mineral claims process around Lightning Ridge.
 DRG
 Council, DOI
 Short term initiative
11.3 Continue to work with stakeholders to strengthen the regulation and compliance regime for the opal mining industry in Lightning Ridge to improve land management, including rehabilitation.
 DRG
 DOI, Council Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 12: Enhance the productivity of employment lands
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
12.1 Encourage the consolidation of isolated, unused or underutilised pockets of industrial zoned land to create long-term economic opportunities. Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy
12.2 Create land use strategies that identify opportunities to develop industrial and employment land and reduce land use incompatibility. Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy
12.3 Ensure an adequate supply of industrial land with the capacity to enable the development of specialised industry clusters and encourage co-location of related industries to decrease supply chain costs. Council
 DPE
 Medium term strategy
12.4 Encourage the sustainable development of industrial land to maximise the use of infrastructure, including access to markets and workers, and connectivity to the existing freight network. Council
 TfNSW, DPE Ongoing strategy
12.5 Investigate barriers to industrial land take-up in Wentworth Local Government Area to leverage opportunities from growth in Mildura. Council
 DPE
 Short term initiative
12.6 Accommodate future commercial and retail activity in existing commercial centres, unless there is a demonstrated need and positive social and economic benefits for the community.  Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy

12.7 Require proposals for new retail development to demonstrate how they:

  • respond to retail demand;
  • respond to innovations in the retail sector;
  • maximise public transport and community infrastructure commensurate with the scale of the proposal; and
    enhance the quality of public areas.
 Council
 DPE, TfNSW
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 13: Protect and manage environmental assets
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
13.1 Map potential high environmental value areas and protect these areas through local plans and strategies.
 OEH
 DPE, Council, DOI
 Medium term initiative
13.2 Minimise potential impacts arising from development in areas of high environmental value, and consider appropriate mechanisms in local plans to identify offsets or other mitigation mechanisms for unavoidable impacts.
 Council
 DPE, OEH Ongoing strategy
13.3 Improve the quality of, and access to, information relating to high environmental values.
 OEH
 Council
 Short term initiative
13.4 Finalise a NSW Travelling Stock Reserve state planning framework to guide the management and development of regional Travelling Stock Reserve management plans.
 DOI OEH, LLS Medium term initiative
13.5 Recognise offset areas in local plans to protect their values in perpetuity.
 Council
 DPE, OEH Ongoing strategy
13.6 Support the recognition and protection of cultural, heritage and biodiversity values of Travelling Stock Routes within the region.
 DOI Council, OEH, LLS
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 14: Manage and conserve water resources for the environment
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
14.1 Implement the Murray–Darling Basin Plan to balance social, economic and environmental outcomes.
 DOI
 Council, DPE, OEH
 Short term initiative
14.2 Finalise water resource plans and long-term watering plans for surface water and groundwater systems in accordance with the Murray–Darling Basin Plan.
 DOI
 Council, DPE, OEH, MDBA
 Medium term initiative
14.3 Support the preservation of Aboriginal cultural flows in the Murray-Darling Basin.
 DPI Water
 Council, OEH, MDBA
 Ongoing strategy
14.4 Locate, design, construct and manage new developments in a way that minimises impacts on water catchments, including downstream impacts and groundwater sources.
 Council
 DOI
 Ongoing strategy
14.5 Minimise the impacts of development on fish habitat, aquaculture and waterways (including watercourses, wetlands and riparian lands) and help deliver the objectives of the Water Management Act 2000.
 Council
 DOI
 Ongoing strategy
14.6 Implement and monitor the environmental water program associated with the Darling Anabranch Pipeline to ensure the long-term health of the ecosystems associated with the Great Darling Anabranch.
 DOI Council, OEH
 Short term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 15: Manage land uses along key river corridors
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
15.1 Prepare and implement a waterfront management strategy for the Murray River. DPE Council, DOI, OEH, CBC, MDBA, TfNSW
 Immediate initiative
15.2 Implement the outcomes of the Murray River waterfront management strategy in the Barwon-Darling River system, where appropriate and applicable. Council
 DOI, DPE, OEH, TfNSW
 Ongoing strategy
15.3 Retain riverfront setback provisions in local plans and limit ribbon development along the Murray River to protect biodiversity, water quality and aesthetic values.  Council
 DPE, DOI, OEH
 Ongoing strategy
15.4 Consider and assess the potential impacts of new development on biodiversity along river corridors, including the Murray, Darling and Barwon rivers.  Council
 DPE, DOI, OEH
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 16: Increase resilience to climate change
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
16.1 Incorporate the findings of the Far West Enabling Regional Adaptation project to inform land use and planning decisions.
 Council
 DPE, OEH Ongoing strategy
16.2 Adopt a whole-of-government approach to information exchange, to support climate change adaptation and preparedness.
 OEH
 Council, DPE
 Ongoing strategy
16.3 Respond to climate-related risks by applying and communicating fine-scale climate information to support decision-making.
 OEH
 Council
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 17: Manage natural hazard risks
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
17.1 Locate developments, including new urban release areas, away from areas of known high biodiversity value, high bushfire and flooding hazards, and designated waterways to reduce the community’s exposure to natural hazards.  Council
 DPE, OEH, RFS, SES
 Ongoing strategy
17.2 Implement the requirements of the NSW Floodplain Development Manual 2005 by updating flood studies and floodplain risk management plans.
 Council
 DPE, OEH, SES
 Ongoing strategy
17.3 Incorporate the best available hazard information in local plans consistent with current flood studies, flood planning levels, modelling and floodplain risk management plans.
 Council
 DPE, OEH, SES
 Ongoing strategy
17.4 Update and share current information on environmental assets and natural hazards with councils to inform planning decisions.
 OEH DPE, RFS, Council
 Ongoing strategy
17.5 Manage the risks of disturbance in areas affected by naturally occurring asbestos. Council
 OLG, EPA Ongoing strategy
17.6 Identify a suitable location for a new Doppler weather radar to provide more accurate weather information in the Far West so that planning decisions better respond to natural hazard risks and changing climatic conditions.
 Council
 OEH, SES, DPC
 Short term initiative
17.7 Improve the existing water level gauge network in the Far West to enable more accurate predication and response to regional flooding risks.
 WaterNSW SES, MDBA, OEH, Council, DOI
 Short term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 18: Respect and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage assets
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
18.1 Promote opportunities for unique and compelling visitor experiences associated with Aboriginal cultural heritage in national parks and reserves. NPWS Council, DCONSW, AANSW, LALCs
 Ongoing strategy
18.2 Protect, manage and respect Aboriginal objects and places in accordance with legislative requirements. Council
 OEH, DPE, AANSW, LALC
 Ongoing strategy
18.3 Undertake Aboriginal cultural heritage assessments to inform local land use strategies and to identify any appropriate heritage management mechanism. Council
 OEH, AANSW, LALC, DPE
 Ongoing initiative
18.4 Consult with Aboriginal people and the broader community during strategic planning to identify and protect heritage values; minimise the impact of urban growth and development; and recognise their contribution to the character and landscape of the region.  Council
 OEH, DPE, AANSW, LALC, Education
 Ongoing strategy
18.5 Continue to work with Aboriginal communities to jointly manage national parks and reserves to contribute to economic, social and cultural outcomes for Aboriginal communities.
 NPWS OEH, Council, AANSW, LALC
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 19: Conserve and adaptively re-use European heritage assets
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
19.1 Increase heritage protection and revitalise main streets and town centres through community education and development incentives in local plans. Council
 OEH, DPE
 Short term initiative
19.2 Prepare, review and update heritage studies in consultation with the community to recognise and conserve heritage assets and items, and include appropriate local planning controls. Council
 OEH, DPE
 Ongoing strategy
19.3 Prepare a master plan for a designated cultural precinct in Broken Hill to leverage arts activation for tourism, visitor attraction and community benefit.  Create NSW
 Council, DOI, DPE, DCONS
 Short term initiative
19.4 Consult with the Heritage Division of the Office of Environment and Heritage when assessing applications for land use changes, new developments or expanding uses within or near heritage items. Council
 OEH Ongoing strategy
19.5 Map and protect heritage items (including archaeology) from land use conflicts arising from inappropriate and incompatible surrounding land uses, including from cumulative impacts of development. Council
 OEH Ongoing initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 20: Manage change in settlements
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
20.1 Update the Strengthening Rural Communities: Resource Kit as a resource for councils to help rural communities build capacity and resilience. DPC Council, DPE
 Short term initiative
20.2 Undertake modelling with local communities to better understand the implications and factors contributing to population change. DPE Council
 Immediate initiative
20.3 Build drought resilience in rural communities by providing targeted support to primary producers and communities to improve preparedness and decision-making.
 DOI Council
 Medium term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 21: Strengthen communities of interest and cross-regional relationships
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3

21.1 Work with cross-border councils to investigate:

  • barriers to, and enablers of, economic, housing and jobs growth;
  • service delivery models; and
  • infrastructure delivery, including transport infrastructure.
 CBC DPE, TfNSW, Council
 Medium term initiative
21.2 Work with the Victorian Government and adjoining Victorian councils to develop a cross-border land and housing monitor. DPE Council, CBC
 Medium term initiative
21.3 Investigate opportunities to standardise development standards in NSW and Victoria, focusing on seniors’ housing and affordable housing developments.
 DPE
 Council, CBC
 Medium term initiative
21.4 Work with the Cross Border Commissioner to make travel across the NSW border easier and more convenient.
 TfNSW Council, CBC
 Medium term initiative
21.5 Implement key initiatives from the Statement of Principles and Priorities for Cross-border Collaboration 2016-2019 to improve service delivery to Far West communities near the Queensland border.
 CBC Council Short term strategy
21.6 Consider cross-border land use, infrastructure and tourism strategies when planning for the region.
 Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy
21.7 Enhance the twin town role of Wentworth and Mildura through collaborative land use planning, including opportunities to increase housing in Buronga. Council
 DPE, CBC Short term strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 22: Collaborate and partner with Aboriginal communities
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
22.1 Develop partnerships and engagement protocols with Aboriginal communities during the planning process. Council DPE, OEH, DPC, LALC, AANSW
 Short term initiative
22.2 Engage Aboriginal communities during the preparation of local housing strategies and local environmental plans. Council
 DPE, OEH
 Ongoing strategy
22.3 Work with stakeholders, including Aboriginal housing providers and prescribed body corporates, to identify opportunities for social and affordable housing options to meet the distinct cultural needs of Aboriginal communities. FACS Council, DPE, NSW Land and Housing Corporation, Aboriginal housing providers
 Immediate initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 23: Improve access to local health services, aged care and seniors’ housing
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
23.1 Where practical, promote opportunities to establish health precincts around hospitals and encourage opportunities for development of complementary services. Council
 DPE, Health
 Ongoing strategy
23.2 Identify and plan for multipurpose, flexible and adaptable health infrastructure that responds to changing and emerging community needs. Council
 DPE, Health
 Ongoing strategy
23.3 Improve access to health facilities for cross-border communities through better transport connections. Council
 TfNSW, CBC
 Ongoing strategy
23.4 Minimise the encroachment of inappropriate and incompatible land uses near existing and proposed health facilities. Council
 DPE, Health
 Ongoing strategy
23.5 Remove planning barriers to provide a range of low-care and independent seniors accommodation options. Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy
23.6 Review the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) 2004 to make it more applicable for developers in regional areas. DPE
 Council Short term initiative
23.7 Provide opportunities for retirement villages, nursing homes and similar housing for seniors in local land use strategies. Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy
23.8 Locate new housing for seniors close to existing services and facilities, and on land free from hazards, including floods and bushfires.
 Council
 DPE, RFS, OEH
 Ongoing strategy
23.9 Promote ageing in place by adopting relevant components of Livable Housing Australia’s Livable Housing Design Guidelines in development controls for housing, where possible. Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 24: Enhance access to education and training
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
24.1 Remove barriers to the access and expansion of the education and training sector. DOI Council, Education Medium term initiative
24.2 Work with councils, industry, research institutes, and education and training providers to align skill shortages with tailored regional training programs.
 DOI Education, DPC, Council Ongoing strategy
24.3 Facilitate joint venture opportunities for shared community/ school facilities on school sites. Education Council Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 25: Improve public and community transport services
Action Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
25.1 Investigate opportunities to improve bus operations in strategic centres and local service centres and their connections with regional communities. TfNSW
 Council
 Short term initiative
25.2 Work with local transport operators and community transport providers to investigate delivery models for flexible and reliable transport, suited to the distinct needs of each community. TfNSW
 Council
 Short term initiative
25.3 Prepare strategies to better link the region’s towns and villages to strategic centres and other major centres. TfNSW
 Council
 Ongoing initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 26: Manage and conserve water resources for communities
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
26.1 Protect the Broken Hill pipeline corridor to deliver a secure long-term water supply to Broken Hill and its surrounding communities. WaterNSW DPE, Council Short term initiative
26.2 Adopt an integrated approach to water cycle management across the region. Council DOI Ongoing strategy
26.3 Investigate ongoing water supply issues and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver long-term water security for residents and industries, including funding works from the Water Security for Regions program.  DOI
 WaterNSW, Council Ongoing initiative
26.4 Investigate supplementary water sources for town water supply during periods of drought. DOI
 WaterNSW, Council Short term initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 27: Provide greater housing choice
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
27.1 Review planning controls in existing town centres to increase housing options in centres and locations close to services and jobs. Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy
27.2 Align infrastructure planning with land release areas to support new developments with adequate infrastructure. Council
 DPE, TfNSW, Infrastructure providers, Education
 Ongoing strategy
27.3 Locate multi-dwelling housing developments close to town centres and villages to capitalise on existing infrastructure and to provide a greater choice of housing close to services and amenities. Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy
27.4 Produce guidelines to help councils plan for and manage seasonal and itinerant worker accommodation. DPE Council Immediate initiative
27.5 Prepare planning guidelines for the short-term accommodation of mining employees to support workforce needs during mining construction, operation or shutdown. DPE Council Immediate initiative

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 28: Deliver greater opportunities for affordable housing
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
28.1 Promote incentives to encourage greater housing affordability, including a greater mix of housing in new release areas.
 Council
 DPE, FACS Ongoing strategy
28.2 Prepare planning guidelines for local affordable housing needs in local housing strategies.
 DPE Council Short term initiative
28.3 Promote a range of housing types and affordable housing options in local housing strategies.
 Council
 DPE. FACS Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 29: Manage rural residential development
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
29.1 Provide opportunities for rural residential development only where it has been identified in a local strategy prepared by council and approved by the Department of Planning and Environment. Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy
29.2 Ensure the design of rural residential areas respects the semi-rural character of the area. Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy

29.3 Locate rural residential areas:

  • close to existing urban settlements to maximise the efficient use of existing infrastructure and services, including roads, water, sewer and waste services, and social and community infrastructure;
  • to avoid and minimise the potential for land use conflicts with productive, zoned agricultural land and natural resources; and
  • to avoid areas of high environmental, cultural and heritage significance, important agricultural land or areas affected by natural hazards.
 Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy
29.4 Manage land use conflict that can result from cumulative impacts of successive rural residential development decisions. Council
 DPE
 Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

Direction 30: Create healthy built environments
Action  Governance
  Responsibility1 Partners2 Timing3
30.1 Enhance the quality of neighbourhoods by providing and promoting accessible, adaptable and well-connected open spaces that support physical activity, including recreational walking and cycling networks in the design of new communities.  Council
 DPE, TfNSW, Education
 Ongoing strategy
30.2 Develop regional urban design guidelines for planning, designing and developing healthy built environments in the Far West’s unique climate. DPE OGA, Council Immediate initiative
30.3 Incorporate water and climate sensitive urban design in new developments and when revitalising town centres. Council
 DPE, OEH Ongoing strategy
30.4 Design new housing developments to reflect the local and distinct built form, heritage and character. Council
 DPE Ongoing strategy

1 Responsibility: Indicates who leads the investigation, assessment and decision-making for land use planning.
2 Partner: Indicates who supports the lead and takes an active role in land use planning
3 Timing: immediate: 0-2 years, short term: 3–5 years, medium term: 5–10 years, long term: 10+ years, ongoing – strategies
Council: Includes all Councils in the Far West Region; DPE: Department of Planning and Environment; TfNSW: Transport for NSW; DOI: Department of Industry; DPC: Department of Premier and Cabinet; OEH: Office of Environment and Heritage; NPWS: National Parks and Wildlife Services; DRG: Division of Resources and Geosciences; OGA: Office of the Government Architect; CBC: NSW Cross Border Commissioner; MDBA: Murray Darling Basin Authority; AANSW: NSW Aboriginal Affairs; OLG: Office of Local Government; EPA: Environment Protection Authority; FACS: Department of Family and Community Services; LALC: Local Aboriginal Land Council; RMS: Roads and Maritime Services; RFS: Rural Fire Services; LLS: Local Land Services; CMC: Far West Delivery, Coordination and Monitoring Committee; Education: Department of Education; Health: Health NSW; DCONSW: Destination Country & Outback NSW; SES: State Emergency Service; Create NSW: Create NSW; WaterNSW: WaterNSW; DPI Water: Department of Primary Industry Water. 

 

Download the Implementation Plan

 

Monitoring Report

The Monitoring Report provides an overview of work undertaken by the NSW Government, local councils and other stakeholders to implement the Far West Regional Plan 2036.

 

The Report identifies the key achievements for delivering on the goals, directions and actions of the Regional Plan and outlines progress on the delivery of priority actions over the past two years. The report also outlines the work plan that will be progressed over the next 12 months.

 

Download Monitoring Report 2019

 

Resources

Background information on the Far West:

Page last updated: 09/05/2022

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