The independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) is investigating potential reform of around 1,000 NSW licences to reduce the burden on individuals, businesses and the community. Source: Timberman
Calling for public submissions to the review, IPART Chairman Peter Boxall said NSW licences cover everything from trade and professional licences, and licences to operate motor vehicles, to licences for natural resource management, environment protection, health, education, liquor and gaming.
“There is a broad range of licences in NSW, all of which impose costs on individuals, businesses or the community in terms of administration, compliance, delays, fees and charges. Removing unnecessary red tape will make our economy stronger and improve our community,” Dr Boxall said.
“This review is seeking to find specific, practical solutions to reduce red tape and unnecessary costs associated with NSW licences.
“To do so, we need information, examples and case studies about what works well now, what doesn’t and what reform is needed. Direct input from businesses, individuals, not-for-profit groups, and the broader community will help ensure that we identify the right licence reform priorities and that our recommendations achieve the best possible outcomes,” Dr Boxall said.
An online survey is now open for all licence holders to have their say about which licences are imposing unnecessary costs, and to provide ideas for licence reforms to reduce these costs.
Consultation has already started with Local Government and NSW Government departments.
The IPART licence review was commissioned by Premier Barry O’Farrell to assist the NSW Government to meet its red tape reduction target of $750 million by June 2015.
The review’s Issues Paper discusses key issues for this review and seeks feedback on licence reform priorities. The Issues Paper also explains how IPART will assess potential impacts of its licence reform recommendations, and develop a framework that regulators can use when considering new licences or reviewing existing licences.
The Issues Paper, along with further information on IPART’s review, is available at IPART’s website
A public roundtable will be held in Sydney on 12 February 2013, during which interested parties will be given a further opportunity to present their views. The public will also be able to review and provide comment on IPART’s Draft Report, scheduled for release in March 2013.
IPART’s Final Report is due to be provided to the NSW Government in June 2013.
