The NSW Government is undertaking a once in a generation review into the State’s infrastructure contributions system with feedback now being invited on the NSW Productivity Commissioners Issues Paper, which was released today.
Acting NSW Treasurer Damien Tudehope said the review supported the State’s Recovery and Reform agenda following an unprecedent bushfire season and the challenges of the COVID-19 health pandemic.
“We are working hard to set NSW up for a dynamic recovery, and we know when we support infrastructure and development, we support jobs and the economy,” Mr Tudehope said.
“We have a unique opportunity right now to deliver reforms that boost investment and get shovels in the ground.”
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the release of the Issues Paper was the first step toward delivering a fairer and more efficient contributions system across the State.
“The paper explores the current infrastructure funding framework in NSW, focusing on the role of infrastructure contributions and how they support councils and local communities,” Mr Stokes said.
“It is critical we strike the right balance between supporting businesses to get their projects from conception to construction, while also supporting councils to deliver necessary infrastructure and local projects to drive economic growth, job creation and better community infrastructure.”
NSW Productivity Commissioner Peter Achterstraat AM said the Issues Paper opens the conversation on how the current system could be improved.
“This review is looking at what opportunities exist to deliver a whole-of-government approach to the system and ensure greater consistency across the State from Ballina to Bega,”
Mr Achterstraat said. “Public feedback is now welcomed on whether the right principles have been identified, which will inform the potential reform options by the Commission.”
Stakeholders and the community can provide feedback on the discussion questions in the Issues Paper until 5 August 2020 at https://productivity.nsw.gov.au/.
