Infrastructure and utility providers have a role to play in the planning system because they provide essential services that make modern life possible. This includes power, water, sewerage and roads. Some of these providers have regulatory roles in the planning system.
TasWater and Tas Gas Networks have specific roles in the development application process. Councils must refer certain development applications to TasWater, who give advice to councils and include conditions in planning permits under the Water and Sewerage Industry Act 2008. Tas Gas Networks also gives advice on development applications to councils under the Gas Industry Act 2019 within a gas infrastructure planning corridor.
Councils must also refer certain development applications to TasNetworks and pass on their advice to the applicant to enable early discussions on any electricity infrastructure needs.
Councils also provide infrastructure services such as stormwater drainage under the Urban Drainage Act 2013 and local roads under the Local Government (Highways) Act 1982. The Department of State Growth is responsible for state roads under the Roads and Jetties Act 1935.
Infrastructure and utility providers undertake long-term planning to meet the growing population’s needs, and work with planning authorities to make sure that the land requirements for future infrastructure are integrated into strategic and statutory plans.
TasWater and Tas Gas Networks do not make the final decision on a development application – just matters relating to their infrastructure or utilities.
