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Under the Development Act 1993 the Minister for Planning may declare a development proposal to be a major development or major project. Such a declaration may occur when the proposal is considered to be of major environmental, social, or economic importance and it is believed that it is appropriate or necessary for proper assessment.
A major development or project is assessed through a process that operates under the Development Act 1993 and is overseen by the state government rather than a local council. As part of this process the proponent will be required by the Development Assessment Commission (DAC) to prepare an environmental impact statement or public environmental report or development report. The level of assessment will depend on the complexity of the proposal and is determined by the DAC.
How the EPA contributes to major developments or projects
Where a major development or project includes one or more activities of major environmental significance as prescribed in Schedule 1 of the Environment Protection Act 1993, assessment documents must be referred to the EPA for assessment and comment.
Where such an activity is not proposed, assessment documents may still be referred to the EPA for assessment and comment.
The EPA may advise on the measures proposed to mitigate potential environmental impacts and will work with the proponent to ensure that proper environmental investigations are undertaken. The EPA does not have the power to direct refusal or approval on matters relating to major developments, but does provide advice about these matters.
Last modified: 22/04/2013 12:00 pm
