PlanFIRST is a landmark Government initiative to modernise the plan making system across NSW to deliver better outcomes and a sustainable future for NSW. It is about a whole-of-government approach, including local government, to make sure that plans are more effective in coordinating actions and giving confidence in the future.

In September 2002, the Minister for Planning, the Hon Andrew Refshauge MP identified the Northern Rivers for regional strategy work, as part of the implementation of planFIRST. This means that the Northern Rivers Regional Strategy is currently in a process of transition to planFIRST.

Preparation for this transition has involved:

• Identification of issues and needs for the Regional Forum to consider (including research requirements, suggestions concerning technical sub-committees etc);

• Exchange of NRRS information, materials and assets;

• Strengthening the valley committee structure in preparation for the new work program;

• A celebration to recognise the conversion from the NRRS to PlanFIRST;

• Consolidation of NRRS information, consultation findings and research; and

• Finalisation of the following projects:

• Sustainable Designer’s Toolkit

• Social Impact Assessment Information package

• Residential Release Strategies Spreadsheet System

• Extractive Resources Model Conditions

• Villages Research Projects; and

• Information guide and gap analysis for the Richmond Valley Passenger Transport Project.

A Regional Forum is in the process of being established in the Northern Rivers to provide the Minister for Planning with advice on the development of the regional strategy.

For more information about planFIRST see http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au