The Territory Labor Government is making the Territory the best place to do business as we lead the national comeback from the coronavirus.  

Today, the Government introduced the Statute Law Amendment (Territory Economic Reconstruction) Bill 2021, to streamline approvals and support industry, whilst boosting investment opportunities.

The Bill builds upon the recommendations of the Territory Economic Reconstruction’s final report, and will provide greater certainty for licensing and regulations across a range of industries. 

The Government has proposed a raft of amendments, including:

• The Commercial Passenger (Road) Transport Act 1991, to ensure more flexibility for minibus licence operators who currently can only operate their allocated vehicle.
• The Crown Lands Act 1992, to shorten the timeframes for re-appraisals for leasing Crown land to five years to help lessees adapt to more manageable adjustments of rental costs.
• The Environmental Protection (Beverage Containers and Plastic Bags) Act 2011, to streamline registration for suppliers of containers and reduce approvals processes.
• The Food Act 2004, to ensure decisions on new food business applications is processed within 30 days, as well as reducing administration around food analysts, with organisations to be approved, rather than individuals. 
• The Liquor Act 2019, so that a digital drivers licence can be used with the Banned Drinkers Register when purchasing alcohol.
• The Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission Act 1976, to streamline approval processes for developments within parks and reserves.
• The Water Act 1992, to ensure businesses and industry can obtain a longer licence when they meet updated criteria.

This Bill sets out the first round of amendments to implement the recommendations of the Territory Economic Reconstruction final report, and it will be debated in August.

A second Bill is in development, and will be introduced later this year.

Quotes from Attorney-General, Selena Uibo:

“From announcing the Can-Do portal to the Major Projects and Investment Commissioners, we are already doing so much in this space.

“Because the Territory has remained the safest place in the country during the coronavirus, we have the best shot at leading the national comeback – and we are capitalising on this opportunity.

“This legislation will fast-track approval times, and make business easier for Territorians.

“It will also open the door to new investment opportunities for the private sector, which will help grow our economy.”