Page 549 - Week 03 - Tuesday, 20 March 1990
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explanatory statement concerning the Bill. On this Assembly's previous sitting day, Thursday, 22 February, I tabled the draft planning and heritage Bills as the primary elements of the Government's comprehensive land planning package. I notice that hardly any member of the Opposition is here and interested in what I have to say, which is becoming typical these days. I refer specifically to members of the Labor Party, who disappear off the floor of the house at every opportunity.
Mr Berry: It might have something to do with your speeches.
MR KAINE: Since this is a matter of some interest, and one on which the Labor Party placed much emphasis, namely planning legislation, I would have thought at least its members would have been here to hear what I have to say. But it is typical of their attitude.
On 22 February, I informed the Assembly that remaining parts of the package would be tabled and released for public comment progressively. The tabling of this Bill today marks the next stage in this process. It demonstrates the high priority that we on this side of the house place on making this important legislation available to Assembly members and the public as soon as it is drafted.
In tabling the draft planning and heritage Bills, I stated that one of the prime objectives of our land planning system is to achieve a balance between economic growth, community expectations and environmental concerns. This Bill represents an essential factor in ensuring that this balance is achieved and maintained. As an integral part of the land planning system, the procedures set in place by this Bill are directed towards the overall aim of the system - to provide the people of the ACT with an attractive, safe and efficient environment in which to work, live and have their recreation.
The inquiries and environmental assessments Bill is based upon three key principles: that the comprehensive examination of, and consultation on, major proposals be allowed before decisions are taken; that all relevant issues shall be taken into account in assessing a proposal, and that a single assessment or inquiry process to encompass matters relating to different components of the land planning package should be undertaken.
I will now address briefly the way in which the Bill will operate. Its overall purpose is to specify common procedures for inquiries into, and environmental assessments of, the impact of planning, heritage, leasing or other land use proposals.
Inquiries and assessments will be triggered by directions or requirements under various parts of the land planning package. For example, under the planning Bill the Minister
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