The NSW Government is helping residents living in the Goulburn electorate to lodge and track development applications online, with the roll out of $50,000 in funding to each council.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said Wingecarribee Shire, Goulburn Mulwaree, Upper Lachlan Shire, Hilltops and Yass Valley Councils will each receive a $50,000 grant, as part of the Regional NSW Planning Portal Grant program, to help them transition to the online ePlanning system.
“The ePlanning program is transforming the way local planning applications are lodged, tracked and processed,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“This online tool is simplifying and speeding up what was once a cumbersome paper-based process.
“The funding will ensure our councils have everything is in place to transition to the online platform and benefit from an improved service for everyone involved in the planning process.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said our ePlanning platform offers an online tool where people can access planning services and lodge and track the progress of applications from anywhere, at any time.
“We need to help councils update their processes in line with community expectations. Most things are done digitally now – the days of paper-based transactions that can only take place during business hours are behind us,” Mr Stokes said.
Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said the grants are a fantastic demonstration of support for regional areas and will help councils improve their service to communities.
“Whether upgrading or replacing IT systems and software, learning how to use the platform, or providing support to their residents, these grants will help councils get what they need to get online,” Mrs Hancock said.
Councils will be be processing all applications the NSW Planning Portal by 1 July this year, when it becomes mandatory throughout NSW.
WENDY TUCKERMAN 