The Town and Country Planning Department will be enforcing stricter compliance with construction and development standards.

His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Daniel Pruce while delivering the Speech from the Throne at the First Sitting of the Second Session of the Fifth House of Assembly, stated that over the years, breaches of the Physical Planning Act 2004 have occurred in construction projects across the Territory. 

Governor Pruce said, “Violations often arise from non-compliance with planning approvals, unauthorised alterations, or deviations from established guidelines. The Town and Country Planning Department has determined that the current legislative framework lacks the authority needed to take swift and decisive action against violators. To resolve these challenges, the Department has prioritised strengthening its legislative powers to enforce stricter compliance with construction and development standards”

The Governor said the proposed amendments to the Physical Planning Act 2004 would introduce a system of civil penalties, fines, and other enforcement mechanisms to address breaches promptly and effectively.

The updated legislation will ensure that projects adhere to approved standards, creating a more orderly and well-regulated development landscape in the Territory, while promoting sustainable development practices.

The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change is  responsible for overseeing and managing environmental issues, natural resources, and climate change policies within the Territory. Its primary goal is to ensure the sustainable use and protection of the environment while addressing the challenges posed by climate change.