Hearings

When publicly exhibited, planning scheme amendments, rezonings and exceptional development permit applications are available for public comment.

Community members, local government and service authorities can make submissions about these proposals to the Planning Commission.

The Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment makes the final decision on these proposals.

Before a decision is made, the Planning Commission may hold a hearing to consider submissions and provide advice to the Minister.

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What is the role of the NT Planning Commission?

The Northern Territory Planning Commission (the Commission) is an independent body established under the Planning Act 1999.

For planning scheme amendments, rezonings and exceptional development permit applications its role includes:

  • considering public submissions
  • conducting hearings when needed
  • hearing from applicants, submitters and other stakeholders
  • reviewing information about planning proposals
  • preparing reports and recommendations for the Minister

The Commission does not make the final decision on planning proposals.

Why hearings are held

Written submissions are the main way people share their views with the Commission.

The Planning Commission may hold a hearing to help it better understand the issues raised about a proposal.

If a hearing is held, people who made submissions, applicants and other invited participants may also have a chance to provide more information before the Commission prepares its report for the Minister.

Who makes the decision?

The Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment makes the final decision.

The Commission's role is to consider the information available, hear from participants and provide a report to assist the Minister's decision.

What happens when a hearing is not held?

A hearing is not held for every planning proposal. The Planning Commission decides if a hearing is needed.

All written submissions received are considered, even if there is no hearing. The Planning Commission reviews the submissions and prepares a report for the Minister.

The Minister makes the final decision on the proposal. The Minister considers the Planning Commission's report, along with the information and submissions received about the proposal.

Whether or not a hearing is held, written submissions are an important part of the process and will be considered before a decision is made.