Crown Land Commissioner Professor Richard Bush is calling for feedback on a Discussion Paper looking into the effectiveness of the Crown Land Management Act 2016 (the Act).
The Commissioner said this Discussion Paper will help him undertake an independent review on the progress of the implementation of the Act.
“The NSW Crown estate is a large and significant asset that contributes to the prosperity, sustainability and wellbeing of our community,” Professor Bush said.
“I want to capture the diverse views of the community, land managers, and the Crown Lands Department, as well as other government agencies, and engage in a public dialogue on the success of Crown land management since the Act commenced in July 2018.”
This evaluation of the Act provides an avenue for all stakeholders to reflect on how Crown land is being managed and used under the new legislation and to consider new and innovative ways that would enable Crown land to be better managed in the future.
The Discussion Paper centres around seven key areas of focus: innovation and the State Strategic Plan for Crown Land, Aboriginal connection, accessibility and usability, community involvement, local council-managed land, western land opportunities, and compliance and protection of land.
The draft Crown Land State Strategic Plan was on exhibition last year and a final plan will be published in the coming months. This review is also a way of ensuring the Act is fit for the future – that it can enable the strategic outcomes in the Crown Land State Strategic Plan to be achieved – while also meeting the expectations of different stakeholders more broadly.
“I encourage you to communicate with clarity and courage on how Crown land can support you and NSW. Please take the opportunity to engage and contribute your experiences, expectations and ideas,” Professor Bush said.
A report on the review’s findings – with recommendations – will be provided to the NSW Government. To read the discussion paper and provide feedback, please visit: Crown Land Management Act Discussion paper.
The Discussion Paper will be on exhibition until Thursday 25th March 2021.
