The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 sets the structure for the NSW planning system. It provides the regulatory framework for planning decisions, including the assessment of development applications, making of planning instruments, and strategic environmental planning.
The NSW Government is committed to keeping the Act updated to make sure it is operating efficiently and fairly. We are continually working to modernise the planning system, making it simpler, faster, and better designed to deliver high-quality decisions and outcomes for the people of NSW.
Guide to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
The Act strengthens building regulation and certification procedures to ensure quality and safety.
The Act requires all planning authorities to have a community participation plan in place to explain how the community will be consulted for planning applications and processes.
The Act is easier to navigate, understand and it has 10 principal parts, with all provisions decimal numbered.
Updates to the Act ensure the planning system is fit-for-purpose and operates efficiently.
The Act allows applicants to request an internal review from council of a decision about integrated development.
The Act recognises the critical role of councils in strategic planning for their local area.