State Coastal Policy 1996

On 16 April 2003 the State Coastal Policy Validation Act 2003 came into effect. This Act replaces the former definition of the Coastal Zone in the State Coastal Policy 1996 and reinstates the Policy. The Act also validates all previous decisions made under the Policy.

 

The revised State Coastal Policy 1996 is provided below. A print-friendly PDF version is also available for downloading.

Please note, the Government is currently reviewing the State Coastal Policy 1996 - see the State Coastal Policy review web page.

Tasmanian State Coastal Policy - 1996

CONTENTS

PREAMBLE

The State Coastal Policy is a policy created under the State Policies and Projects Act 1993. State policies, also known as Tasmanian Sustainable Development Policies, are a new policy mechanism created under the Tasmanian Resource Management and Planning System and they apply across the State.

A State Policy is a statutory document which is intermediate between the provisions of an Act and the lesser policies and provisions of planning schemes and other mechanisms identified in the relevant legislation comprising the System.

The State Policies and Projects Act 1993 determines the functions of a State Policy and what it can contain:

S.5(1) A State Policy-

  1. must seek to further the objectives set out in Schedule 1; and
  2. may be made only where there is, in the opinion of the Minister, a matter of State significance to be dealt with in the State Policy; and
  3. must seek to ensure that a consistent and coordinated approach is maintained throughout the State with respect to the matters contained in the State Policy; and
  4. must incorporate the minimum amount of regulation necessary to obtain its objectives.

The central objective of any State Policy is sustainable development. This means that it must address the use, development and protection of natural and physical resources together with the objectives relating to public involvement and the sharing of responsibility in resource management and planning as well as those relating to economic development. The State Coastal Policy incorporates the Schedule 1 objectives for sustainable development.

In order to be effective a State Policy has to be implemented fully. A number of statutory and non-statutory implementation tools exist for use by State and local government. It is likely that each State Policy will require a different combination of implementation mechanisms, dependent on its subject matter.

Statutory tools include provisions under statutes comprising the Resource Management and Planning System and discretionary and other actions provided for in existing statutes. Non-statutory tools include Ministerial advice, Cabinet directives, Codes of Practice review and development, guidelines and educational initiatives, the budgetary process, and a range of economic instruments. Establishing institutional arrangements such as the State Coastal Advisory Committee (SCAC) will also aid policy implementation.

Of major importance with regard to implementation and enforcement of a State Policy are the provisions of the State Policies and Projects Act 1993 contained in Sections 13 and 14.

S.13(1)
Where there is an inconsistency between a provision of a State Policy and the provision of a planning scheme or a special planning order in force at the time when the State Policy comes into operation, the provision of the planning scheme or special planning order is void to the extent of the inconsistency.

 

To avoid any inconsistencies the State's peak planning body, the Land Use Planning Review Panel, is required to remove inconsistencies between a State Policy and planning schemes and interim orders.

S.13(3)
The Panel must, as soon as practicable after a State Policy comes into operation, amend a planning scheme or an interim order to remove any inconsistency between it and the State Policy.

 

All new schemes, of course, are required to be consistent with any State Policy that is in effect when the scheme is prepared. In addition, this particular State Policy, the State Coastal Policy, specifically requires planning authorities to implement it. Compliance with a State Policy is enforced through the provisions of S.14(1).

S.14(1)
A person who contravenes or fails to comply with a provision of a State Policy or a requirement or obligation imposed under a State Policy is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction in accordance with subsection (2).

 

(2)
A person convicted of an offence under subsection (1) is liable to a fine not exceeding 500 penalty units, and a person who is so convicted in respect of a continuing contravention of or failure to comply with a provision of a State Policy or a requirement or obligation imposed under a State Policy-

  1. is liable, in addition to the fine otherwise applicable to that offence, to a fine for each day during which the contravention or failure to comply continued of not more than 50 penalty units; and
  2. if the contravention or failure to comply continues after the person is convicted, is guilty of a further offence against subsection (1) and is liable, in addition to the fine otherwise applicable to that further offence, to a fine for each day during which that contravention or failure to comply continued after that conviction of not more than 50 penalty units.

On the whole, all government bodies at State and local level are required to give effect to a State Policy 'to ensure that a consistent and coordinated approach is maintained throughout the State' as set out in S.5(1)(c) of the State Policies and Projects Act.

For further information on the State Coastal Policy please contact:

Contact: Coastal and Marine Branch

Coastal and Marine Branch
6th Floor, Lands Building, 134 Macquarie Street
GPO Box 1751
Hobart TAS 7001
Phone: 03 6233 3963
Fax: 03 6233 6800
Email: Coastal.Enquiries@environment.tas.gov.au

APPLICATION OF THE STATE COASTAL POLICY

This Policy applies to the Crown in all its capacities, in particular by force of ss.4 and 14 of the State Policies and Projects Act 1993 and s.63(2) of the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993. Subject to contrary statutory provision, it also applies to statutory authorities.

Planning authorities are also required to give effect to this Policy.

The State Coastal Policy applies to all of Tasmania, including all islands except for Macquarie Island which is subject to a special management regime.

DEFINITIONS

Coastal Zone

Under the State Coastal Policy Validation Act 2003, a reference in the State Coastal Policy 1996 to the coastal zone is to be taken as a reference to State waters and to all land to a distance of one kilometre inland from the high-water mark.

The Act states that "State waters" has the same meaning as in the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995.

Sustainable Development

(Schedule 1, State Policies and Projects Act 1993)

The term "sustainable development" means managing the use, development and protection of natural and physical resources in a way, or at a rate, which enables people and communities to provide for their social, economic and cultural well-being and for their health and safety while:

  1. sustaining the potential of natural and physical resources to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations; and
  2. safeguarding the life-supporting capacity of air, water, soil and ecosystems; and
  3. avoiding, remedying or mitigating any adverse effects on the environment.

Activities

"activities" means any human action occurring in the coastal zone including use and development.

Amenity Value

(Environmental Management and Pollution Control Bill 1993)

"amenity value" of an area includes any quality or condition of the area that is conducive to its enjoyment.

Development

(Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993)

"development" includes-

  1. the construction, exterior alteration or exterior decoration of a building; and
  2. the demolition or removal of a building or works; and
  3. the construction or carrying out of works; and
  4. the subdivision and consolidation of land, including buildings or airspace; and
  5. the placing or relocation of a building or works on land; and
  6. the construction or putting up for display of signs or hoardings

Works

(Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993)

"works" includes any change to the natural or existing condition or topography of land including the removal, destruction or lopping of trees and the removal of vegetation or topsoil, but does not include forest practices, as defined in the Forest Practices Act 1985, carried out in State Forests.

Environment

(Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994)

"environment" means land, air, water, organisms and ecosystems, and includes-

  1. human-made or modified structures or areas; and
  2. the amenity values of an area.

Land

(Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993)

"land" includes-

  1. buildings and structures permanently fixed to land; and
  2. land covered with water; and
  3. water covering land; and
  4. any estate, interest, easement, servitude, privilege or right in or over land.

Planning Schemes

(Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993)

"planning schemes" means any planning scheme in force under section 29 of the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993.

Precautionary principle

(Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment, 1992)

"precautionary principle" means where there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation.

In the application of the precautionary principle, public and private decisions should be guided by:

  1. careful evaluation to avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment; and
  2. an assessment of the risk-weighted consequences of various options.

Shack

A "shack" is a dwelling used for recreational and other purposes on a temporary occupancy basis at intermittent periods throughout the year.

State Waters

Under the State Coastal Policy Validation Act 2003, a reference to "State waters" has the same meaning as in the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995.

Use

(Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993)

"use" in relation to land, includes use or proposed use for the purpose for which the land has been, is being or may be developed.

Public land

"public land" means but shall not be limited to public land as defined in the Public Land Administration and Forests Act 1991.

Planning controls

"planning controls" means a planning scheme or interim order under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993, a management plan prepared under the Forestry Act 1920, the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1970, or the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995, a marine farming development plan under the Marine Farming Planning Act 1995, or a plan of management prepared for an area reserved under the Crown Lands Act 1976.

OBJECTIVES

(Schedule 1, State Policies and Projects Act 1993)

Sustainable Development Objectives of the Resource Management and Planning System, Tasmania:

  1. to promote the sustainable development of natural and physical resources and the maintenance of ecological processes and genetic diversity; and
  2. to provide for the fair, orderly and sustainable use and development of air, land and water; and
  3. to encourage public involvement in resource management and planning; and
  4. to facilitate economic development in accordance with the objectives set out in paragraphs a), b) and c); and
  5. to promote the sharing of responsibility for resource management and planning between the different spheres of government, the community and industry in the State.

The Sustainable Development Objectives are central to the Policy's intent and all other provisions are based on these objectives either explicitly or implicitly.

PRINCIPLES

The purpose of these Policy principles is to guide the outcomes of the Tasmanian State Coastal Policy. No one principle should be read in isolation from the others to imply a particular action or consequence.

The principles are not listed in priority order.

Three main principles guide Tasmania's State Coastal Policy:

Natural and cultural values of the coast shall be protected.

The coast shall be used and developed in a sustainable manner.

Integrated management and protection of the coastal zone is a shared responsibility.

Each of these principles is based on the understanding of a variety of factors.

Natural and cultural values of the coast shall be protected

This principle recognises:

  • that Tasmania comprises a number of islands and has more coastline per unit/area than any other State in Australia;
  • that the natural character of the coastal zone is of special cultural value to Tasmanians and to visitors from elsewhere;
  • the importance of the coastal zone to Aboriginal people, in particular traditional use and Aboriginal culture;
  • the dynamic, complex and interconnected nature of biological and physical processes in the coastal zone (terrestrial and marine);
  • the susceptibility of the coast to the effects of natural events, including sea-level rise;
  • the importance of good water quality to Tasmania's marine ecosystems;
  • the importance of maintaining representative or significant natural ecosystems and sites of biological importance, and the biodiversity of Tasmania's indigenous coastal flora and fauna; and
  • that protection of coastal sites and features of cultural and historic value is of State and regional significance.

The coast shall be used and developed in a sustainable manner

This principle recognises:

  • that Tasmania's coast is a major economic asset, which contains the State's major concentrations of population and industry;
  • that some activities are dependent on or gain an advantage from a coastal location;
  • the economic and social values of sea ports and airports, mineral and forest resources, agriculture, marine farming and fisheries to Tasmania, and the legitimate aspirations of individuals and communities for allocation of space and resources in the coastal zone for these activities;
  • the importance of protecting valuable fish nursery habitat for future fishing activities;
  • the importance of good water quality to Tasmania's marine-based food industries;
  • the economic and social values of tourism and recreation in the coastal zone;
  • that the availability of the coastal zone for some activities, uses and development will be limited by the ability of natural and physical resources to meet the foreseeable needs of future generations and by the need to sustain the life-supporting capacity of air, water, soil and ecosystems;
  • the importance of public access to and along the coast consistent with protection of natural coastal values, systems and processes; and
  • that the coastal environment is being affected by activities, uses and development occurring outside the coastal zone.

Integrated management and protection of the coastal zone is a shared responsibility

This principle recognises:

  • that it is the duty of all government agencies which manage part of the coastal zone to further the sustainable development objectives of the resource management and planning system of Tasmania;
  • the need for integrated, coordinated and cooperative management of the coast (marine and terrestrial systems), which is effective across the whole of government and that it covers many disciplines;
  • that management responsibility for the coast is shared between:
    • communities, especially those who gain directly by the use and development of coastal resources and those who have traditionally used them
    • Local Government
    • State Government
    • Commonwealth Government;
  • the importance of generating and sharing knowledge and information about coastal resources and processes;
  • that governments at all levels acknowledge that there are responsibilities created by a number of international conventions and agreements relating to the coastal zone;
  • that the State Government has primary management responsibility for the Tasmanian coastal zone;
  • that planning authorities have a key role in sustainable development of the coastal zone under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993 through planning schemes and decisions which are guided by the State Coastal Policy;
  • that where the scale of effects of use or development is of State significance, the project may become a Project of State Significance under the State Policies and Projects Act 1993; and
  • that communities have an important role to play in coastal management through:
    • participation in decision making
    • input to policies and plans
    • direct management

OUTCOMES

1. Protection of Natural and Cultural Values of the Coastal Zone

1.1.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND ECOSYSTEMS
1.1.1.
The coastal zone will be managed to ensure sustainability of major ecosystems and natural processes.
1.1.2.
The coastal zone will be managed to protect ecological, geomorphological and geological coastal features and aquatic environments of conservation value.
1.1.3.
The coastal zone will be managed to conserve the diversity of all native flora and fauna and their habitats, including seagrass and seaweed beds, spawning and breeding areas. Appropriate conservation measures will be adopted for the protection of migratory species and the protection and recovery of rare, vulnerable and endangered species in accordance with this Policy and other relevant Acts and policies.
1.1.4.
Exotic weeds within the coastal zone will be managed and controlled, where possible, and the use of native flora encouraged.
1.1.5.
Water quality in the coastal zone will be improved, protected and enhanced to maintain coastal and marine ecosystems, and to support other values and uses, such as contact recreation, fishing and aquaculture in designated areas.
1.1.6.
Appropriate monitoring programs and environmental studies will be conducted to improve knowledge, ensure guidelines and standards are met, deal with contaminants or introduced species and generally ensure sustainability of coastal ecosystems and processes and ensure that human health is not threatened.
1.1.7.
Representative ecosystems and areas of special conservation value or special aesthetic quality will be identified and protected as appropriate.
1.1.8.
An effective system of marine reserves will continue to be established to protect marine ecosystems and fish nursery areas.
1.1.9.
Important coastal wetlands will be identified, protected, repaired and managed so that their full potential for nature conservation and public benefit is realised. Some wetlands will be managed for multiple use, such as recreation and aquaculture, provided conservation values are not compromised.
1.1.10.
The design and siting of buildings, engineering works and other infrastructure, including access routes in the coastal zone, will be subject to planning controls to ensure compatibility with natural landscapes.
1.1.11.
Fire management, for whatever purpose, shall be carried out in a manner which will maintain ecological processes, geomorphological processes and genetic diversity of the natural resources located within the coastal zone.
1.2.
CULTURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES
1.2.1.
Areas within which Aboriginal sites and relics are identified will be legally protected and conserved where appropriate.
1.2.2.
All Aboriginal sites and relics in the coastal zone are protected and will be identified and managed in consultation with Tasmanian Aboriginal people in accordance with relevant State and Commonwealth legislation.
1.3.
CULTURAL HERITAGE
1.3.1.
Places and items of cultural heritage will be identified, legally protected, managed and conserved where appropriate.
1.4.
COASTAL HAZARDS
1.4.1.
Areas subject to significant risk from natural coastal processes and hazards such as flooding, storms, erosion, landslip, littoral drift, dune mobility and sea-level rise will be identified and managed to minimise the need for engineering or remediation works to protect land, property and human life.
1.4.2.
Development on actively mobile landforms such as frontal dunes will not be permitted.
1.4.3.
Policies will be developed to respond to the potential effects of climate change (including sea-level rise) on use and development in the coastal zone.

 

2. Sustainable Development of Coastal Areas and Resources

2.1.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND ECOSYSTEMS
2.1.1.
The coastal zone shall be used and developed in a sustainable manner subject to the objectives, principles and outcomes of this Policy. It is acknowledged that there are conservation reserves and other areas within the coastal zone which will not be available for development.
2.1.2.
Development proposals will be subject to environmental impact assessment as and where required by State legislation including the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994.
2.1.3.
Siting, design, construction and maintenance of buildings, engineering works and other infrastructure, including access routes within the coastal zone will be sensitive to the natural and aesthetic qualities of the coastal environment.
2.1.4.
Competing demands for use and development in the coastal zone will be resolved by relevant statutory bodies and processes, in particular the Land Use Planning Review Panel, the Resource Management and Planning Appeal Tribunal and the Marine Farming Planning Review Panel. Planning schemes, marine farming development plans and other statutory plans will provide guidance for resource allocation and development in accordance with this Policy.
2.1.5.
The precautionary principle will be applied to development which may pose serious or irreversible environmental damage to ensure that environmental degradation can be avoided, remedied or mitigated. Development proposals shall include strategies to avoid or mitigate potential adverse environmental effects.
2.1.6.
In determining decisions on use and development in the coastal zone, priority will be given to those which are dependent on a coastal location for spatial, social, economic, cultural or environmental reasons.
2.1.7.
New industrial developments will be encouraged to locate in specified industrial zones.
2.1.8.
Extraction of construction materials, mineral, oil, and natural gas deposits in the coastal zone will be allowed provided access to areas is allowed under the provisions of the Mining Act 1929.
2.1.9.
Exploration will be conducted in accordance with environmental standards under relevant legislation and the Mineral Exploration Code of Practice. Adequate rehabilitation shall be carried out.
2.1.10.
Extraction will be subject to the Quarry Code of Practice and environmental assessment as required by State legislation including the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994. Adequate rehabilitation shall be carried out.
2.1.11.
Extraction of sand will be provided for by zoning of appropriate areas in planning schemes.
2.1.12.
Timber harvesting and reforestation in the coastal zone will be conducted in accordance with the Forest Practices Code and have regard to this Policy.
2.1.13.
Whole farm planning and sustainable farming activities will be encouraged on agricultural land in the coastal zone and in coastal catchments in order to minimise problems such as erosion, sedimentation and pollution of coastal waters including surface and ground waters.
2.1.14.
Management arrangements for commercial and recreational fisheries will be further developed in accordance with the objectives, principles and outcomes of this Policy, through a management planning framework designed to maintain sustainability and diversity of fish resources and their habitats and promote economic efficiency under the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995.
2.1.15.
Harvesting of marine plants shall be conducted in a sustainable manner in accordance with relevant State legislation and this Policy.
2.1.16.
Water quality in the coastal zone and in ground water aquifers will accord with the requirements and guidelines established by the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 or the Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1987 (as appropriate) and any other relevant State and Commonwealth Policies and statutes.
2.1.17.
Waste discharge into the coastal zone, including offshore waters, or likely to affect groundwater aquifers, must comply with provisions of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 or the Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1987 (as appropriate) and any relevant State and Commonwealth Policies.
2.1.18.
Where oil pollution occurs in the coastal zone, and, or, offshore areas, the National Plan to combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil, Tasmanian Supplement, will apply. Efforts to prevent or mitigate maritime accidents and pollution shall be based upon relevant ANZECC and other guidelines.
2.1.19.
Every effort will be made to prevent the introduction of foreign marine organisms and species. Relevant Commonwealth provisions for quarantine and ballast water or other ship discharges shall apply.
2.2.
MARINE FARMING
2.2.1.
Marine farming will be planned, developed and conducted in the coastal zone having regard to sustainable development considerations and in accordance with the Marine Farming Planning Act 1995 and other relevant terrestrial and marine resource management and planning legislation and consistent with this Policy.
2.2.2.
Marine Farming Development Plans will be prepared, approved and gazetted under the Marine Farming Planning Act 1995 and consistent with the objectives, principles and outcomes of this Policy.
2.3.
TOURISM
2.3.1.
Tourism use and development in the coastal zone, including visitor accommodation and other facilities, will be directed to suitable locations based on the objectives, principles and outcomes of this Policy and subject to planning controls.
2.3.2.
Tourism development proposals in the coastal zone will be subject to environmental impact assessment as required by State legislation including a water safety assessment to indicate the level and type of lifesaving facilities and personnel required to protect people.
2.3.3.
Opportunities for tourism development will be identified wherever strategic planning occurs for the coastal zone or any part of it.
2.3.4.
Tourism development will be located where there is environmental capacity and where it does not significantly conflict with the natural and aesthetic qualities of the coastal zone.
2.4.
URBAN AND RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
2.4.1.
Care will be taken to minimise, or where possible totally avoid, any impact on environmentally sensitive areas from the expansion of urban and residential areas, including the provision of infrastructure for urban and residential areas.
2.4.2.
Urban and residential development in the coastal zone will be based on existing towns and townships. Compact and contained planned urban and residential development will be encouraged in order to avoid ribbon development and unrelated cluster developments along the coast.
2.4.3.
Any urban and residential development in the coastal zone, future and existing, will be identified through designation of areas in planning schemes consistent with the objectives, principles and outcomes of this Policy.
2.5.
TRANSPORT
2.5.1.
All transport infrastructure and associated services will be planned, developed and maintained consistent with the State Coastal Policy.
2.5.2.
Significant scenic coastal transport routes and associated facilities will be identified, planned and managed to ensure sustainable benefits for tourism and recreation value and amenity.
2.5.3.
New coast hugging roads will be avoided where possible with vehicular access to the coast being provided by spur roads planned, developed and maintained consistent with the State Coastal Policy.
2.5.4.
Marine structures will be designed, sited, constructed and managed in accordance with best practice environmental management and subject to environmental impact assessment having regard to statutory requirements.
2.5.5.
The multiple use of port areas will be encouraged but priority will be given to efficient port operations and safety requirements subject to cultural, natural and aesthetic values not being compromised.
2.6.
PUBLIC ACCESS AND SAFETY
2.6.1.
The public's common right of access to and along the coast, from both land and water, will be maintained and enhanced where it does not conflict with the protection of natural and cultural coastal values, health and safety and security requirements.
2.6.2.
Public access to and along the coast will be directed to identified access points. Uncontrolled access which has the potential to cause significant damage to the fragile coastal environment and is inconsistent with this Policy will be prevented.
2.6.3.
Agreements between landowners, landholders and councils or State Government to grant public access to the coast, and Aborigines access to Aboriginal sites and relics in the coastal zone over private and public land will be encouraged and shall be considered when preparing plans or approving development proposals.
2.6.4.
Public facilities such as life saving facilities and essential emergency services, parking facilities, toilet blocks, picnic sites, rubbish disposal containers, boat ramps and jetties will be provided at appropriate locations consistent with the objectives, principles and outcomes of this Policy to facilitate access to and enjoyment of the recreational amenity of the coast and estuarine foreshores.
2.6.5.
Councils will ensure that there will be a coastal safety assessment for any new coastal development likely to attract people to the coast to indicate the level and type of lifesaving facilities and personnel required.
2.6.6.
Developer contributions will be encouraged in respect to the costs of providing public access and safety services for the community.
2.7.
PUBLIC LAND
2.7.1.
All future use and development of public land in the coastal zone will be consistent with this Policy, and subject to planning controls unless otherwise provided by statute.
2.7.2.
Future development of camping areas on public land in the coastal zone will only be permitted where such development does not conflict with the protection of natural features and cultural values, but not within 30 metres above high water mark.
2.7.3.
Expansion of shack sites on public land in the coastal zone will not be permitted.
2.7.4.
Shacks currently located on public land in the coastal zone will continue to be subject to review under the Shack Site Categorisation Program of the Tasmanian Property Services Group.
2.8.
RECREATION
2.8.1.
Recreational use of the coastal zone will be encouraged where activities can be conducted in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
2.8.2.
Suitable recreation opportunities will be identified through strategic planning and may be provided in appropriate locations where they do not adversely affect sensitive coastal ecosystems and landforms or in designated areas where such effects can be remedied or mitigated.
2.8.3.
Special recreational vehicle areas may be established as an environmental protection measure and as a means of limiting unauthorised motor vehicle activity in environmentally sensitive areas.

 

3. Shared Responsibility for Integrated Management of Coastal Areas and Resources

3.1.
SHARED RESPONSIBILITY FOR MANAGEMENT
3.1.1.
Provision will be made for consistency in policy interpretation and implementation by all spheres of government throughout Tasmania, including consistency in changes to planning schemes affected by this Policy.
3.1.2.
Coastal management should be considered as an integral component of regional planning undertaken in the State.
3.1.3.
Provision shall be made for effective coordination of the activities of governments, industry and local communities in interpreting and implementing the State Coastal Policy.
3.1.4.
Provision for effective and greater involvement of Aboriginal people in areas of particular interest to Aboriginal people will be made as part of community participation processes.
3.1.5.
Planning authorities, the Land Use Planning Review Panel and the Marine Farming Planning Review Panel will use their best endeavours to function in a coordinated and collaborative manner to effectively and efficiently implement the State Coastal Policy.
3.1.6.
Councils will prepare strategic and operational plans for their municipal areas having regard to the principles, objectives and outcomes of this Policy and will be encouraged to function in a coordinated and collaborative manner with adjacent councils and other planning authorities.
3.1.7.
State government agencies and planning authorities will participate with other State, Territory and Commonwealth agencies in relevant forums to foster a national approach to coastal zone management.
3.2.
INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
3.2.1.
A State Coastal Advisory Committee comprising representatives of State and local government and the community will be established to facilitate implementation, coordination, consistent interpretation, and evaluation of this Policy.
3.2.2.
The State Coastal Advisory Committee will be supported by the Coastal and Marine Program in the Department of Environment and Land Management.
3.2.4.
A high level of coastal expertise will progressively be developed in agencies responsible for implementation of the State Coastal Policy.
3.2.5.
The effectiveness of institutional arrangements will be reviewed three years from the date of implementation of the State Coastal Policy.
3.3.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND INFORMATION
3.3.1.
Public awareness of coastal issues and community participation in managing the coastal zone will be encouraged and facilitated, including networking between community groups working in the coastal zone.
3.3.2.
Advice and information will be provided to coastal community groups through councils and State Government agencies responsible for coastal planning and management on the implementation and interpretation of the State Coastal Policy, on government assistance programs or other matters relevant to the coastal zone.
3.3.3.
Community projects and action which benefit the coastal zone and are consistent with this Policy will be encouraged and assisted through the Coastal and Marine Program of the Department of Environment and Land Management or other relevant government programs.
3.3.4.
Communities will be given the opportunity to make submissions to all plans or policies affecting the coastal zone. Consultative meetings with relevant and interested community groups and individuals in local or regional areas will be held in conjunction with the release of policies and plans wherever possible.
3.3.5.
Research into coastal processes and matters related to coastal zone planning and management by government or research institutions will be encouraged and assisted where possible.

 

4. Implementation, Evaluation and Review

4.1.
Implementation of the State Coastal Policy will be coordinated through the State Coastal Advisory Committee.
4.2.
The main vehicles for implementation of this Policy will be land use planning controls, marine farming development plans, and local council strategic and operational plans
4.3.
To ensure integration between planning schemes and other plans affecting the coastal zone, all planning authorities (including local councils, Marine Boards, the Secretary of the Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries and other agencies developing plans which cover all or any part of the coastal zone) are required, as appropriate, to consult with the Marine Resources Division (Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries) the Marine Board responsible for the area subject to the plan and the Department of Environment and Land Management.
4.4.
The effectiveness of the State Coastal Policy will be monitored and assessed throughout its term. A report on the coastal zone will be included in all State of the Environment Reports which the Sustainable Development Advisory Council submits to the Minister pursuant to Section 29 of the State Policies and Projects Act 1993.
4.5.
To ensure that policies and plans for the coast are responsive to changing needs and circumstances the Minister responsible for the administration of the State Policies and Projects Act 1993 shall review the State Coastal Policy at the end of three (3) years after this Policy has come into operation and thereafter no less than every five (5) years

 

INDEX

This index has been developed to assist users of this Policy. It lists key words and relevant sections of the Policy. 'P' refers to the Principles in the order listed (eg P2); numbered sections refer to the Outcomes (eg 3.1.2). The word 'Coastal' has in general not been referenced.

  • Aboriginal, P1, 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 2.6.3, 3.1.4
  • Access
    • public, P2; 2.6; 2.6.1, 2.6.2, 2.6.3; 2.6.4, 2.6.6
    • routes, 1.1.10; 2.1.3
    • vehicular, 2.5.2; 2.5.3
  • Activities, (refer definitions)
  • Aesthetic value/quality, 1.1.7; 2.1.3; 2.3.4; 2.5.5
  • Agency, government, P3
  • Agriculture, P2; 2.1.13
  • Airports, P2
  • Amenity value, (refer definitions)
  • ANZECC, 2.1.18
  • Aquaculture, see Marine farming
  • Aquatic, 1.1.2
  • Ballast water, 2.1.19
  • Biodiversity, P1
  • Biological processes, P1
  • Breeding areas, 1.1.3
  • Buildings, 1.1.10; 2.1.3
  • Camping, 2.7.2
  • Capacity, life supporting, P2
  • Climate change/sea-level rise, P1; 1.4.1; 1.4.3
  • Coastal and Marine Program, DELM, 3.2.2; 3.3.3
  • Coastal catchments, 2.1.13
    • location, P2; 2.1.6
    • processes, P1; P2; P3; 1.4.1; 3.3.5
    • zone, (refer definitions) ; P2; P3
  • Code/Code of Practice
    • Forest Practices, 2.1.12
    • Mineral, 2.1.9
    • Quarry, 2.1.8
  • Commonwealth
    • Government, P3; 2.1.17; 2.1.18; 3.1.3; 3.1.7
    • legislation, 1.2.2
  • Community, P3; 3.1.3; 3.2.1; 3.3.4
    • groups, 3.3.1; 3.3.2
    • projects, 3.3.3
    • participation, 3.1.4
  • Compliance with Policy, (refer preamble)
  • Conservation, 1.1.2; 1.1.3; 1.1.7; 1.1.9; 1.2.1; 1.3.1; 2.1.1
  • Conservation reserves, 2.1.1
  • Consistency with Policy, (refer preamble)
  • Consultation, 3.3.4
  • Contaminants, 1.1.6
  • Councils, see Local Government
  • Culture
    • Aboriginal, P1
  • Cultural, 1.2; 1.3; 2.1.6
    • heritage, P1; 1.1.2; 1.3; 1.3.1; 2.1.6; 2.6.1; 2.7.2
    • value, P1; 2.5.5; 2.7.2
  • Design, 1.1.10; 2.1.3
  • Designated area, see Zones
  • Department of Environment and Land Management (DELM), 3.2.2; 3.3.3; 4.3
  • Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries (DPIF), 4.3
  • Development, (refer definitions) ; P2; P3; 1.4.2; 1.4.3; 2.1; 2.1.1; 2.1.2; 2.1.3; 2.1.4; 2.1.5; 2.1.6; 2.1.7; 2.2.1; 2.2.2; 2.3.1; 2.3.2; 2.3.3; 2.3.4; 2.4.2; 2.4.3; 2.6.3; 2.6.5; 2.7.1; 2.7.2
    • camping, 2.7.2
    • contributions (developer), 2.6.6
    • industrial, 2.1.7
    • infrastructure, 1.1.10; 2.1.3; 2.4.1; 2.5.1
    • proposal, 2.1.2; 2.6.3
    • ribbon, 2.4.2
    • sustainable, see Sustainable Development
    • tourist (and use), P2; 2.3.1; 2.3.2; 2.3.3; 2.3.4; 2.5.2
    • urban/residential, 2.4; 2.4.1; 2.4.2; 2.4.3
  • Dune, 1.4.1; 1.4.2
    • frontal, 1.4.2
  • Ecological, 1.1.2; 1.1.11
  • Economic, 2.1.6
    • asset, P2
    • value, P2
  • Ecosystem, P1; 1.1.1; 1.1.5; 1.1.6; 1.1.7; 1.1.8; 2.8.2
    • representative, P1
  • Enforcement of Policy, (refer preamble)
  • Engineering works, 1.1.10; 1.4.1; 2.1.3
  • Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1987, 2.1.16; 2.1.17
  • Environment, (refer definitions)
  • Environmental, 2.1.6
    • effects, 2.1.5
    • damage, 2.1.5; 2.4.1
    • degradation, 2.1.5
  • Environmental Impact Assessment, 2.1.2; 2.3.2; 2.5.4
  • Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994, 2.1.2; 2.1.10; 2.1.16; 2.1.17;
  • Erosion, 1.4.1; 2.1.13
  • Extraction, 2.1.8; 2.1.10; 2.1.11
  • Exploration, 2.1.9
  • Farming (land), 2.1.13
  • Fauna, P1; 1.1.3; 2.1.14
    • indigenous (native), P1; 1.1.3
    • introduced, 1.1.6; 2.1.19
  • Features
    • ecological, 1.1.2; 1.1.11
    • geological, 1.1.2
    • geomorphological, 1.1.2; 1.1.11
  • Fire management, 1.1.11
  • Fish nursery, P2; 1.1.8
  • Fish spawning, 1.1.3
  • Fishing, P2; 1.1.5
  • Fisheries, P2
    • commercial, 2.1.14
    • recreational, 2.1.14
  • Flooding, 1.4.1
  • Flora, P1; 1.1.3; 1.1.4
    • indigenous (native), P1; 1.1.3; 1.1.4
    • introduced, 1.1.4; 1.1.6; 2.1.19
    • marine, 2.1.15
  • Forestry, P2; 2.1.12
  • Funding, policy, 3.2.3
  • Gas, natural, 2.1.8
  • Genetic, diversity, 1.1.11
  • Geology, 1.1.2
  • Geomorphology, 1.1.2; 1.1.11
  • Government, P3; 3.1.1; 3.1.3; 3.3.2; 3.3.3; 3.3.5
  • Grazing, 2.1.13
  • Hazard, 1.4; 1.4.1
  • Health, 1.1.6; 2.3.2; 2.6.1
  • Historic value, P1; 1.2
  • Industry, P2; 3.1.3
    • food, P2
    • developments, 2.1.7
    • zones, 2.1.7
  • Information, P3; 3.3; 3.3.2
  • Infrastructure, urban, 2.4.1
  • International agreements, P3
  • International conventions, P3
  • Introduced species, 1.1.6; 2.1.19
  • Islands, P1
  • Land, (refer definitions)
  • Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993, P3
  • Land Use Planning Review Panel, 2.1.4; 3.1.5
  • Landforms, 1.4.2; 2.8.2
  • Landscape, 1.1.10
  • Landslip, 1.4.1
  • Lifesaving, 2.3.2; 2.6.4
  • Littoral drift, 1.4.1
  • Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995, 2.1.14
  • Local Government, P3; 2.6.3; 2.6.5; 3.1.3; 3.1.6; 3.2.1; 3.3.2; 4.2; 4.3
  • Management, P3; 1.1.1; 1.1.2; 1.1.3; 1.1.4; 1.1.9; 1.1.11; 1.2.2; 1.3.1; 1.4.1; 2.1.15; 2.2.1; 2.5.2; 2.5.4; 3.1; 3.1.2; 3.1.7; 3.3.2; 3.3.5
  • Marine Boards, 4.3
  • Marine ecosystem, P1
  • Marine farming, P2; 1.1.5; 1.1.9; 2.2; 2.2.1; 2.2.2; 3.1.5
  • Marine Farming Development Plans, 2.1.4; 2.2.1; 2.2.2; 4.2
  • Marine Farming Planning Act 1995, 2.2.1; 2.2.2
  • Marine farming, 2.1.4; 3.1.5;
  • Marine plants, 2.1.15
  • Marine reserves, see Reserves
  • Marine Resources Division (DPIF), 4.3
  • Marine structures, 2.5.4; 2.5.5
    • boat ramps, 2.5.4; 2.6.4; 2.6.5; 2.6.6
    • boatsheds, 2.5.4; 2.6.1; 2.6.5; 2.6.6; 2.7.3; 2.7.4
    • jetties/wharves, 2.5.4; 2.6.4; 2.6.5; 2.6.6
  • Mining, P2; 2.1.8; 2.1.9
  • Mining Act 1929, 2.1.8
  • Monitoring, 1.1.6; 4.4
  • Multiple use, 1.1.9; 2.5.5
  • National approach, 3.1.7
  • Natural events, P1
  • Objectives, (refer objectives)
  • Oil, 2.1.8; 2.1.18
  • Physical processes, P1
  • Planning, 2.1.14; 2.2.1; 2.2.2; 2.3.1; 2.3.3; 2.4.2; 2.5.1; 2.5.2; 2.8.2; 3.1.2; 3.3.2; 3.3.5
    • authorities, P3; 3.1.5; 3.1.6; 3.1.7; 4.3
    • operational, 3.1.6; 4.2
    • regional, 3.1.2
    • strategic, 2.3.3; 2.8.2; 3.1.6; 4.2
  • Planning controls, (refer definitions) ; 1.1.10; 2.3.1; 2.7.1; 4.2; 4.3
  • Planning Schemes, (refer definitions) ; P3; 2.1.4; 2.1.11; 2.4.3; 3.1.1; 4.3
  • Policy
    • compliance with, (refer preamble); 2.1.1
    • evaluation, 3.2.1; 3.2.5; 4
    • funding, 3.2.3
    • interpretation, 3.1.1; 3.1.3; 3.2.1; 3.3.2
    • implementation, 3.1.1; 3.1.3; 3.1.5; 3.2.1; 3.2.3; 3.2.4; 3.3.2; 4; 4.1; 4.2
    • monitoring, 4.4
    • objectives, (refer objectives)
    • reporting, 4.4
    • review, 3.2.5; 4.4; 4.5
  • Pollution, 2.1.13
    • oil, 2.1.18
    • National Plan, 2.1.18
  • Ports, P2; 2.5.5
  • Precautionary Principle, (refer definitions) ; 2.1.5
  • Processes
    • biological, P1
    • ecological, 1.1.6; 1.1.11
    • geomorphological, 1.1.11
    • natural, 1.1.1; 1.4.1
    • physical, P1
  • Protection
    • legal, 1.2.1
    • life, 1.4.1; 2.6.4
    • property, 1.4.1
  • Public
    • access, P2; 2.6.1; 2.6.2; 2.6.3; 2.6.6
    • facilities, 2.6.4
    • participation, 3.3; 3.3.1
    • safety, 2.6; 2.6.1; 2.6.5; 2.6.6
  • Public land, (refer definitions) ; 2.7; 2.7.1; 2.7.2; 2.7.3; 2.7.4
  • Recreation, P2; 1.1.5; 1.1.9; 2.5.2; 2.6.4; 2.8; 2.8.1; 2.8.2; 2.8.3
  • Recreational vehicles, 2.8.3
  • Rehabilitation, 2.1.9; 2.1.10
  • Reforestation, 2.1.12
  • Remediation, 1.4.1
  • Representative ecosystems, P1; 1.1.7
  • Residential development, 2.4; 2.4.1; 2.4.2; 2.4.3
  • Research, 3.3.5
  • Reserves
    • conservation, 2.1.1
    • marine, 1.1.8
  • Resource Management and Planning
    • Appeals Tribunal (RMPAT), 2.1.4
    • System of Tasmania (RMPS), P3
  • Resource
    • development, 2.1.4
    • forest, P2
    • mineral, P2
    • planning, 2.2.1
  • Responsibility, P3; 3; 3.1.5; 3.1.7
  • Roads, 2.5.1; 2.5.2; 2.5.3
  • Safety, 2.5.5; 2.6; 2.6.1; 2.6.4; 2.6.5; 2.6.6; 2.8.1
  • Sand
    • dunes, 1.4.1; 1.4.2
    • extraction, 2.1.11
  • Seagrass, 1.1.3
  • Seaweed, 1.1.3
  • Sea level rise, see Climate change
  • Security, 2.6.1
  • Sedimentation, 2.1.13
  • Significant, P1, 1.4.1, 2.5.2, 2.6.2
  • Shack, (refer definitions) ; 2.7.3; 2.7.4
  • Social
    • values, P2
    • reasons, 2.1.6
  • State of Environment Report (SoE), 4.4
  • State Coastal Advisory Committee, 3.2.1; 3.2.2; 4.1
  • State Government, P3; 2.6.3; 3.1.3; 3.1.7; 3.2.1; 3.2.3; 3.3.2
  • State legislation, general, 1.2.2; 2.1.2; 2.1.10; 2.1.12; 2.1.14; 2.1.15; 2.1.16; 2.1.17; 2.1.18; 2.3.2
    • see Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994, Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995, Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993, Marine Farming Planning Act 1995, State Policies and Projects Act 1993
  • State Policies and Projects Act 1993, P3; 4.4; 4.5
  • State significance, P3
  • Statutory, 2.1.4
    • see State Coastal Advisory Committee; Sustainable Development Advisory Council; Land Use Planning Review Panel; Resource Management and Planning Appeals Tribunal; Marine Farming Planning Review Panel; Marine Boards
  • Storms, 1.4.1
  • Sustainable Development Advisory Council, 4.4
  • Sustainable Development, (refer definitions) ; P2; P3; 2; 2.1.1; 2.1.14; 2.2.1
  • Timber, 2.1.12
  • Tourism, P1; P2; 2.3
    • development, 2.3.1; 2.3.2; 2.3.3; 2.3.4
  • Transport, 2.5
    • airports, P2
    • infrastructure, 2.5.1
    • marine structures, 2.5.4
    • parking facilities, 2.6.4
    • roads, 2.5.2; 2.5.3
    • sea ports, P2; 2.5.5
    • vehicular access, 1.1.10; 2.1.3; 2.1.8; 2.5.3
  • Urban development, 2.4; 2.4.1; 2.4.2; 2.4.3
  • Use, (refer definitions) ; P2; 2.1; 2.1.6
  • Value/quality
    • aesthetic/scenic, 1.1.7; 2.1.3; 2.3.4; 2.5.2; 2.5.5
    • conservation, 1.1.2; 1.1.7; 1.1.9
    • cultural, P1; 2.5.5; 2.6.1; 2.7.2
    • economic, P2
    • historic, P1
    • natural, P2; 2.3.4; 2.5.5; 2.6.1; 2.7.2
    • recreation, 2.5.2
    • social, P2
  • Waste
    • discharge, 2.1.17; 2.1.18
    • disposal, 2.6.4
  • Water
    • ballast, 2.1.19
    • ground water, 2.1.13; 2.1.16; 2.1.17
    • offshore, 2.1.17
    • quality, P1; P2; 1.1.5; 2.1.16
    • safety, 2.3.2
    • surface water, 2.1.13
  • Weeds, 1.1.4
  • Wetlands, 1.1.9
  • Works, (refer definitions)
  • Zone/zoning/designated area
    • industrial, 2.1.7
    • sand extraction, 2.1.11
    • recreation, 2.8.2
    • recreational vehicles, 2.8.3