The Territory Labor Government is making the Territory the best place to do business, today passing important legislation that will cut red tape and make investing in the Territory even easier.
The Statute Law Amendment Bill 2021 builds on the recommendations of the Territory Economic Reconstruction's final report, and will be a key part of the Territory's strengthened approach to winning and supporting investment.
In total, 137 amendments have been made to 22 different laws, including the following significant changes:
- The Commercial Passenger (Road) Transport Act 1991, to ensure more flexibility for minibus licence operators who currently can only operate their allocated vehicle.
- The Crown Lands Act 1992, to shorten the timeframes for re-appraisals for leasing Crown land to five years to help lessees adapt to more manageable adjustments of rental costs.
- The Environmental Protection (Beverage Containers and Plastic Bags) Act 2011, to streamline registration for suppliers of containers and reduce approvals processes.
- The Food Act 2004, to ensure decisions on new food business applications is processed within 30 days, as well as reducing administration around food analysts, with organisations to be approved, rather than individuals.
- The Liquor Act 2019, so that a digital drivers licence can be used with the Banned Drinkers Register when purchasing alcohol.
- The Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission Act 1976, to streamline approval processes for developments within parks and reserves.
- The Water Act 1992, to ensure businesses and industry can obtain a longer licence when they meet updated criteria.
This Bill will streamline approvals and support industry, whilst boosting investment opportunities, and will provide greater certainty for licensing and regulations across a range of industries.
Quotes from Attorney-General, Selena Uibo:
"This Bill is all about cutting red tape and approval times, and making it easier and more attractive to do business in the Territory.
"These amendments make things simpler – but not more risky. We still have robust protections in place for our valuable resources.
"The legislation will also open the door to new investment opportunities for the private sector, which will help grow our economy.
"Our Government is doing everything we can to capitalise on our economic comeback from the coronavirus, to ensure we keep attracting investment, expand industry and create more jobs."
