Mr. Paul Hogan:

I will use the example of the updated and revised density guidelines as they will likely be the first set of guidelines to transition into this new system. I have described the context of the intended changes with regard to reflecting local circumstances and allowing more flexibility. As part of that, there are certain things that are probably best decided nationally. In other words, they would be based on best practice and on efficiencies to do with land, services and climate transitioning. All those considerations may inform what could be perceived as being appropriate to a locality or what an appropriate degree of flexibility would be.

The new model will see certain parameters being set nationally and the mandatory elements. For example, if local authorities are dealing with a site on the outskirts of a large rural town, this would be an acceptable density range for them to apply as they see fit. If the local authorities do that, people will understand the number of houses that may be built on that site. The local discretionary element is the standards for the format and layout within that range and the type of houses. The big questions need to be addressed with a degree of flexibility at national level and to be applied locally.