The Queensland Government and Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) have announced they are working together on a new program aimed at developing a best practice development approval process.

Dubbed “Concept to Construction – Development Assessment Innovation Project”, the new program will enable local councils to adapt for their own use the systems and practices that have achieved best outcomes in terms of effective and accountable development assessment.

LGAQ president Margaret de Wit said 20 of Queensland’s highest growth councils had committed to take part in the project.

“That means the benefits will be very broad, and ensure that there are streamlined, consistent and cost effective assessment services for most development applications in areas it matters most to adopt  efficient ways of bringing building projects to market quickly,’’ she said.

“This project will promote increased development activity and support jobs and economic growth  through increased industry certainty and efficient assessment and approval processes.’’

The project also recognises the construction industry as a major contributor to rebuilding the Queensland economy.

Council of Mayors (SEQ) Chairman Graham Quirk said the project leverages off improvement work undertaken by the Council of Mayors (SEQ) over the past few years.

“The project is about taking best practice and sharing it with other Councils for the benefit of the State,” Councillor Quirk said.