Streamlining development assessment processes - Is South Australia's new Residential Code for Development the answer?

Abstract

South Australia’s planning system has been the subject of review and changes in recent years. The changes have been largely driven by pressure from the development industry which has complained that the system for development assessment and approval is too slow and bureaucratic. One measure designed to address these concerns is the introduction of a Residential Code for Development. This code makes a large number of residential and minor forms of development “complying” and thus must be granted approval. It also specifies a number of proposals which do not require development plan consent. The code is not designed to apply in some more sensitive areas and zones (eg heritage and flood-prone areas). In order to be classified as a residential form of development, a development must meet a range of prescriptive criteria. The article concludes that the onerous nature of many of the criteria will limit the code’s effectiveness. Development on greenfield sites will most suit the application of the code’s provisions. Development on infill sites will be less able to meet the code’s prescriptive criteria. Disappointingly, the code fails to promote more sustainable forms of development.