Project approval process

The Western Australian Government has introduced a lead agency framework to streamline the approvals processes for both proponent and state initiated transport projects.

A lead agency provides a single entry point for proponents, coordination of the approvals process across government for all proposals, case management of proposals throughout the approvals process and guidance and information on the approvals process. The Lead Agency Framework applies to all proposals no matter their size, complexity or environmental, economic or social impact.

The Department of Transport is the lead agency for integrated transport planning for major and significant proposal delivery, public transport infrastructure arising from the Public Transport Master Plan, major State initiated port, rail and road proposals, and significant projects arising from planning for transport corridors.

While Department agencies, including Main Roads WA, Public Transport Authority (PTA) and the Port Authorities, operating under their individual legislation, are responsible for modal planning and the operation of the transport network including the delivery of transport related projects, the framework provides an opportunity to streamline approvals particularly for multimodal projects.

A guidance note for implementation has been developed to help departments put in place, structures, policies and procedures to give effect to the Lead Agency Framework.