- Contemporary Metropolitan Regional Scheme to streamline planning approvals now in effect
- More than 80 per cent of duplicate approvals no longer required
- Changes will streamline the planning process for homeowners, businesses and local governments
- New provisions for the preparation of strategic land use and infrastructure plans to accommodate future housing and businesses
The Cook Government's reforms to modernise the 60-year-old Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) are now in effect, cutting unnecessary red tape and removing significant duplicate processes from the planning system.
It is estimated that more than 80 per cent of duplicate approvals currently required under the MRS are no longer required. The new MRS also removes the need for two separate planning application forms, making the planning application process much easier for homeowners, businesses and local governments.
Other key changes include provisions for the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) to prepare and approve key regional level planning documents, including district structure plans, focused on accelerating the delivery of housing supply.
In support of the new MRS the WAPC has developed guidance for the preparation, assessment and approval of district structure plans.
More information about the MRS is available at Metropolitan Region Scheme (www.wa.gov.au) and WA Planning Manual .
Comments attributed to Planning and Lands Minister John Carey:
"The Cook Government continues to deliver nation-leading planning reforms that boost housing supply across Western Australia by cutting unnecessary red tape and streamlining planning processes.
"This is a significant moment for WA's planning system, as it is the first time the some 60-year-old Metropolitan Region Scheme has had a significant update, with these changes ensuring it remains contemporary and fit-for-purpose.
"We've modernised the Metropolitan Region Scheme to streamline and simplify approval processes by removing unnecessary red tape and burdensome administrative processes from the planning system.
"The changes significantly reduce the paperwork and approvals required for more than 80 per cent of development applications, reducing the burden on homeowners, businesses and local governments.
"Our planning reforms align with the National Planning Reform Blueprint agreed to by National Cabinet and complements our government's record investment of more than $5 billion in housing and homelessness measures."
