Frequently asked questions

We are seeking feedback from key stakeholders and other interested parties, and also to create awareness of the proposed policy. All proposed operational policies are required to be advertised for a period of 60 days.

Operational Policy 1.13 has been prepared with the aims of:

•  providing contextual guidance for WAPC assessment of relevant Significant Development Pathway proposals seeking a decision under public interest principles, in the manner permitted by section 171R(1)(a) of the Planning & Development Act 2005;

•  assisting proponents with information requirements for applications seeking a decision in the ‘public interest’ under the Significant Development pathway; and

•  facilitating a clearer understanding to proponents and the wider community of what ‘public interest’ means in the context of this pathway.

The draft OP 1.13 is deliberately high level, in acknowledgement of the broadness of the term, whilst also being based on case law of relevance to planning and development, including State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) cases. To assist with ease of use and implementation, assessable criteria are provided in Appendix 1 of the policy, with supporting matters of case law included as Appendix 2.

Additionally, it is proposed to update the recently published Significant Development Pathway Application Guide, as applicable, to include reference to OP 1.13 along with any additional supporting information requirements to enable WAPC Statutory Planning Committee's assessment of proposals. Amendments to the Guide will be undertaken subsequent to stakeholder consultation on this policy and based on feedback received.

DPLH has prepared this policy to assist the WAPC with implementing Part 11B of the Planning & Development Act 2005 where significant development proposals of state or regional importance can be determined where in the 'public interest'.

Everyone who may interact with the significant development pathway process; developers, planning consultants, local government and general public.

This is the first consultation that has been undertaken on this policy.  

Following the consultation period, feedback will be incorporated into policy if required. The policy will then be considered by the WAPC for final determination.