PPD completed 2 of the 6 audits of local government (Shepparton & Pyrenees) for the Victorian Auditor General (VAGO) in 2007. This report was released to the public in May 2008.
Following the release of this report municipalities have sought out our services to complete similar audits.
Process
Audits of local government involve the review of 20 planning permit application files chosen at random and five (5) planning scheme amendment files. In terms of resources staff numbers in comparison to applications received are examined.
The key areas that the audits are focused on in relation to planning permit applications are high risk areas such as:
- Identifying permit triggers;
- Section 52 (notice);
- Section 55 (referrals);
- Internal referrals;
- Assessment;
- Permit conditions; and
- Timing.
The audit also examined key ‘non statutory’ elements of the process and provided recommendations relating to:
- File management;
- Section 45 (more information);
- Certification under Clauses 55.01-1 and 56.01-1;
- File allocation/initial assessment;
- Amendment of permit plans; and
- Cultural Heritage Management Plans.
The key areas that the recommendations are focused on in relation to planning scheme amendments included:
- Initiating amendments;
- Notification and public exhibition;
- Assessment following notification and public exhibition;
- Panel hearing;
- Adoption and approval; and
- Fees.
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