Strategic Planning Policy

About the Strategic Planning Policy

Section 81N of the Planning Act sets out that the Northern Territory Planning Commission (NTPC) is to decide its own procedures. In this context, the SPP provides overarching, high-level direction for the preparation of strategic land use plans and planning policies across the NT. It supports the long-term aspirations for land use and development, and aligns with the objectives of the NT Planning Act 1999, which aim to:

  • protect the quality of life of future generations
  • maintain the health of the natural environment and ecological processes
  • assist the provision of public utilities, infrastructure, and community facilities
  • promote the sustainable development of land
  • encourage good design that respects local amenity
  • support the conservation and enhancement of places, areas, buildings, and landforms of cultural, aesthetic, architectural or historical value.

The SPP will be applied by the NTPC, when developing the strategic framework contained within Part 2 of the NTPS, to ensure that:

  • strategic land-use plans and policies align with and promote the overarching objectives of the Planning Act
  • strategic plans are developed with consistent guiding principles, leading to more cohesive and equitable outcomes across different scales and places
  • land use decisions are made with a long-term vision in mind
  • stakeholders in the land use and development process are working towards common goals, leveraging their resources to achieve efficient outcomes
  • other government agencies, developers, and the community have a shared understanding of the priorities and processes guiding land use decisions.

Collectively these plans and policies that form the strategic framework help inform how and where change can take place, whether it be in a city, suburb or regional community.

Resources and reading material

Final Strategic Planning Policy

Preparing the Strategic Planning Policy

Stage Two Engagement

Stage One Engagement

Related Links

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