Inaugural State Planning Commission Appointed

Six South Australians with widespread expertise in urban design, construction, economics and public policy will guide the redevelopment of the state’s planning system over the next three years.

Today His Excellency the Governor in Executive Council formally appointed the members of the inaugural State Planning Commission, who will join former Supreme Court Justice Mr Tim Anderson QC who was appointed as Chairperson in March.

He is now joined by the following Commission members Mr Michael Lennon, Mr Matt Davis, Ms Janet Finlay, Ms Fairlie Delbridge, and Mr Allan Holmes. Ms Sally Smith from the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure has been also appointed as the ex officio member of the Commission.

The South Australian Planning Commission, which will be the State’s principal assessment and advisory body responsible for implementation of the bulk of the reforms under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016, came into operation on 1 April 2017.

Reporting directly to the Minister for Planning, the Commission’s primary roles will include:

• Providing advice and recommendations on government planning policy
• Analysing and assessing upcoming development projects
• Coordinating planning with infrastructure and guidance
• Guiding local council and accredited professionals in the delivery of new planning services and community engagement.

The Commission will action several key components of the new system including:

• Creating a new Community Engagement Charter
• Establishing its Governance arrangements including subcommittee structure; and
• Commencing work on the new State Planning Policies and Planning and Design Code.

In announcing the members of the Commission, the Minister for Planning The Hon. John Rau said Mr Anderson’s QC significant experience in the legal profession and his strong professional integrity has provided a solid foundation for the operation of the inaugural Commission.

“The Commission will ensure that a high benchmark in both public integrity and contemporary land use planning in Australia is achieved as a result of the new Act,” he said.

Mr Anderson said the Commission was looking forward to playing a vital role in South Australia’s transition to a new planning system over the coming years.

“I am excited to lead the Commission though this important period,” Mr Anderson said.

“The Commission’s charter is to act in the best interests of all South Australians, promoting the principles outlined in the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 to encourage state-wide economic growth and support liveability.”

Further information

For further information, please visit the Commission website at www.saplanningcommission.sa.gov.au