There is precious little public policy theory underlying the Department’s grab-bag of proposals for the reform of the Planning system. As the inventor of most of the models that make up the proposals about decision making, I feel I should attempt to provide some theoretical and historical background.
The recent ‘reforms’ to the planning system of NSW have seen a significant centralization of power in the hands of the Minister and appointed rather than elected officials. There are real problems of potential and actual conflicts of interest, a lack of due processes and transparent procedures and therefore an increased perception of undue influence. The consequence is likely to be a continuing loss of community trust in the administration of the planning system.