Mr BAYLEY – Regarding state planning provisions, the Tasmanian Planning Commission announced as recently as 5 August a process to amend the state planning provisions in relation to hazards codes. The draft SPP amendment 1 2024 proposes to clarify the interpretation of an exemption in the landslip hazard code and the relationship between the SPPs and the Building Act 2016, those parts relevant to the landslip hazard code, the coastal erosion hazard code and the coastal inundation hazard code.
Can you explain the motivation for this assessment, and did your government request it? This seems like a pre-emptive strike, whereas previously you’ve had to retrospectively change things in relation to the State Coastal Policy. Looking at this information and the fact that it relates to hazard codes and erosion codes, it does smack of trying to get ahead of the curve and change the rules to facilitate development on coastal strips. What’s the motivation and did you and your government request it?
Mr ELLIS – The work we do around hazard mapping is an important part of what we do in Tasmania in general. We’ve got quite a strong process for planning well when it comes to hazards. A lot of other jurisdictions recognise that in Tasmania. We spoke earlier, in the Police Fire and Emergency Management space, around the flood mapping we do here in Tasmania. That’s really come along in leaps and bounds. Our bushfire planning and other matters are also really important. Sadly, we’ve seen from other jurisdictions interstate where they haven’t planned communities well. We’ve seen significant tragedies and some very tough decisions having to be made in those places. Continuing to work proactively around risk-based assessments is really important.
In terms of the State Coastal Policy, it is a matter we pass through parliament. We’re strongly supportive of ensuring that development can happen in our state, including renewable energy, and also ensuring we can continue to enjoy the Tasmanian way of life through different recreational facilities that provide access to our water, as well as access to those kinds of coastal areas. I will pass over to –
CHAIR – Before you do that, minister, time for scrutiny has expired.
