What council areas will require social impact assessments?

In New South Wales (NSW), the requirement for a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) depends on the scale, nature, and potential impacts of a proposed development, rather than being uniformly mandated by specific local councils. 

1. All State Significant Projects in NSW are required to prepare an SIA in accordance with the Social Impact Assessment Guideline provided by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment. This ensures a consistent approach to evaluating the social impacts of major developments.

2. For developments assessed at the local council level, the necessity for an SIA varies:

• Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs): Individual councils may have specific provisions within their LEPs and DCPs that outline when an SIA is required. These requirements can differ based on local priorities and the characteristics of the area.
• Project-Specific Considerations: Councils might request an SIA for developments that are anticipated to have significant social implications, such as large residential complexes, commercial centers, or facilities that could impact community dynamics.

3. Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, consent authorities are mandated to consider the social impacts of a development proposal as part of their assessment process. This means that, even if not explicitly stated in local planning instruments, a council can require an SIA if deemed necessary for informed decision-making. 

The specific requirements can vary, but here’s a list of some NSW councils where an SIA may be required or is often referenced in their DCPs:

Sydney Metropolitan Councils:

1. City of Sydney Council – An SIA may be required for major projects such as residential, mixed-use, or commercial developments.
2. Inner West Council – Typically for developments with potential significant social impacts.
3. Randwick City Council – An SIA is often requested for developments affecting community facilities or social cohesion.
4. Waverley Council – Required for large or significant developments, particularly those with potential to impact the local population.
5. Canterbury-Bankstown Council – Larger developments or projects that could impact social services or community resources may require an SIA.
6. Parramatta City Council – Significant developments, particularly in town centres or areas of community interest, may require an SIA.
7. Blacktown City Council – Often required for major residential developments or those impacting public amenities.
8. Liverpool City Council – An SIA may be requested for developments with potential impacts on the local community, particularly in urban growth areas.
9. Fairfield City Council – Required for major developments with the potential to significantly impact the community.
10. Campbelltown City Council – Large-scale developments in growing urban areas often require SIAs.

Regional NSW Councils:

1. Newcastle City Council – For developments in areas of high community use or those affecting significant numbers of residents.
2. Wollongong City Council – SIAs may be required for developments that could affect social infrastructure or community services.
3. Central Coast Council – Particularly for major developments or projects that could affect local community services or social equity.
4. Coffs Harbour City Council – Required for developments with potential social consequences, including tourism-related projects.
5. Byron Shire Council – SIAs may be requested for developments that could impact social and community dynamics, especially those affecting local services or amenities.
6. Tweed Shire Council – Required for developments in town centres or areas where the social fabric may be affected.
7. Shoalhaven City Council – SIAs are often necessary for significant projects with potential impacts on community resources or cohesion.
8. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council – Larger developments, especially in growing residential areas, may require SIAs.
9. Ballina Shire Council – SIAs are requested for developments that could have broad social implications.

Notably:

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council council has implemented a comprehensive Social Impact Assessment Policy that outlines the types of developments requiring assessment, the level of information needed, and guidelines to assist applicants in preparing their submissions.
Additionally, many councils, especially in the Greater Sydney area, have SIA policies and guidelines in place to inform best planning outcomes for their local communities.

For developments classified as State Significant Projects, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment mandates the preparation of SIAs in accordance with its Social Impact Assessment Guideline. This guideline provides a framework to identify, predict, and evaluate the likely social impacts of major projects, ensuring a consistent approach across the state.

Understanding Social Impact Assessment (SIA) requirements can be complex, as they vary between councils and planning frameworks. To ensure your project complies with Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs), it’s crucial to get expert guidance early in the process.

At Meliora Projects, we help you navigate council requirements, determine whether an SIA is needed, and prepare comprehensive assessments to support your development application.

Contact our team today for expert advice and a tailored approach to your planning needs. Let’s ensure your project meets compliance standards while delivering positive community outcomes.