Rapid Assessment Framework


On 1 July 2021, the government introduced the Rapid Assessment Framework to ensure that State significant projects in NSW are supported by better assessment, better coordination and better engagement.

The Rapid Assessment Framework is a package of system improvements that increases the efficiency of major project assessments and speeds up assessment timeframes while also improving assessment quality, engagement standards and customer service.

Further information about how the Rapid Assessment Framework operates and the final package, including new guidelines and industry-specific Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs), is available at the department's website.

As part of the reforms, the government has also introduced the Registered Environmental Assessment Practitioners (REAP) Scheme to improve the quality of environmental assessments undertaken for major projects.

View the frequently asked questions 

Feedback

The Rapid Assessment Framework package was exhibited from 14 December 2020 until 12 February 2021.

A Summary of Submissions Report outlines feedback we received during the exhibition period.

Exhibition Package
  1. Policy Paper on Draft Regulation and EIE
  2. Amendment regulation
  3. Industry Specific SEARs - Hospitals
  4. Industry Specific SEARs - Identified Sites and Precincts
  5. Industry Specific SEARs - Warehouse
  6. SSD Guide
  7. SSD Guide App A - Preparing a Scoping Report
  8. SSD Guide App B - Preparing an EIS
  9. SSD Guide App C - Preparing a Submissions Report
  10. SSD Guide App D - Preparing an Amendment Report
  11. SSD Guide App E - Preparing a Modification Report
  12. SSI Guide
  13. SSI Guide App A - Preparing a Scoping Report
  14. SSI Guide App B - Preparing an EIS
  15. SSI Guide App C - Preparing a Submissions Report
  16. SSI Guide App D - Preparing an Amendment Report
  17. SSI Guide App E - Preparing an PIR
  18. SSI Guide App F - Preparing a Modification Report
  19. SSI Guide App G - Declaration of SSI and CSSI
  20. Undertaking Engagement Guide
  21. Assessing Cumulative Impacts Guide
  22. Registered EA Practitioners Guide

 

Timeline

  • On Exhibition

    The consultation is open for public comment.

  •

    Under Consideration

    We'll be reviewing what you told us.

  •

    Made and Finalised

    The final outcomes of this consultation will be documented here.

Consultation period

From:
To:

More information

Relevant legislation: EP&A Act
Exhibiting agency or agencies: DPIE
Exhibition location: NSW Planning Portal