Goondiwindi Regional Council understands that navigating the complexities of development regulations, including the National Building Code and State government requirements, can be challenging and may at times feel like unnecessary red tape.
However, these standards are intended to ensure the safety and well-being of our community and are important.
Council’s role in upholding the national and state safety standards is balanced with our commitment to seeing Goondiwindi grow and prosper through development and building opportunities.
Goondiwindi Regional Council’s approach is focused on actively supporting potential developers and builders through these processes.
We encourage early engagement with council to discuss proposals before you start the project or submit paperwork, as this proactive communication can often save significant time and costs by clarifying requirements from the outset.
We recognise that these regulations can be intricate, and our experienced staff are dedicated to providing guidance and finding practical solutions within the legislative framework.
Council has a legislated obligation to ensure that all facilities used by residents and visitors meet safety standards and have the necessary approvals and certifications.
Our community rightly expects safe venues and assets, and we place the highest importance on addressing any potential safety concerns.
Cr Rob Mackenzie, portfolio holder for Regulatory Services and Planning said red tape is necessary for community safety.
“Goondiwindi Regional Council has a strong track record of working collaboratively with local residents and businesses to successfully navigate these requirements,” he said.
“We are proud of the positive feedback we regularly receive, especially from those outside of the region who have experience with more rigid council’s, regarding our accessible and supportive approach to development and building applications.
“We encourage all individuals and businesses to contact us for a pre-lodgement meeting to discuss your proposal.
“An example of this collaborative spirit is our work with the Goondiwindi Showgrounds. When they initially explored offering camping options, there were no approvals in place, while other caravan and camping operators in the region had invested heavily in compliance measures. Council worked proactively with the Goondiwindi Showgrounds committee to help them understand the compliance standards, work through approvals, and assist them in establishing a now highly successful camping facility that provides a safe environment for all users.
“Unfortunately, we have a small number of individuals who are actively avoiding addressing and rectifying safety and compliance concerns.
“Council is committed to working alongside individuals and businesses to find viable solutions, however where all reasonable avenues of support and collaboration have been exhausted, we are required to issue formal compliance notices.
“I am proud that as a council we are regularly able to assist with resolutions prior to reaching the point of formal notices, and I thank our staff for the many hours behind the scenes that goes into supporting local development opportunities.
“The existing regulations complimented by council’s supportive processes are ultimately in the best interest of our community, protecting both the businesses that operate responsibly and the public who utilise these facilities.”
Goondiwindi Regional Council remains dedicated to fostering growth through development while upholding our unwavering commitment to safety and providing practical support to all applicants.
