This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
IN response to Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission’s recommendations, the Victorian government is committing to enhancing transparency in the planning system and accountability in local government to see more homes built.
32 of IBAC’s recommendations made to the government will be accepted either in full or in-principle, with one accepted in part.
“There’s nothing more important than having a place to call home – we are strengthening planning and local government as part of our once-in-a-generation reform to build more homes,” said Jacinta Allan, premier.
Several of IBAC’s recommendations will reduce the risk of corruption in the planning system, creating a more transparent and consistent system, that will be implemented as part of a review into the Planning and Environment Act.
The government is also set to update guidelines to streamline and improve decision-making criteria and introduce measures to eliminate corruption.
“Victorians rightly have high expectations of their local councillors, and these changes will support councillors to serve the interests of their communities,” said Melissa Horne, minister for local government.
With legislation to be introduced to improve the performance and accountability of councillors across the state.
In addition to the development of regular mandatory training for councillors and mayors, including on conflicts of interest.
“Victorians deserve to have trust in the state’s planning system, and we’re accepting these recommendations as part of our work to make sure good decisions are made faster – and more transparently,” said Sonya Kilkenny, minister for planning.
The government has also received the Electoral Review Expert Panel’s review of the government’s 2018 reforms to the Electoral Act 2002, which includes considerations on IBAC’s recommendation to prohibit donations from high-risk groups like property developers.
The Government will now establish a taskforce to facilitate cooperation across government and support the implementation of the recommendations and report back to the public within 18 months.
