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Former Holroyd City Council
Social Impact Assessment Policy
August 2012
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1 Introduction
Council has long been committed to the process of social impact assessment (SIA) as
a means of considering social issues more comprehensively and consistently in its
planning and decision-making.
Consistent with this, Council adopted a Social Impact Assessment Policy for
Development Applications in March 2002 and revised the Policy in February 2004.
While the Policy has served Council well, there have been significant developments
(at national and international levels) in social impact assessment best practice.
Until recently, understandings of SIA had been quite narrow – being generally limited
to the identification (and management) of social impacts resulting from the land use
assessment process (and not including other elements of the development life cycle
– such as statutory and program planning and public policy formulation).
This ‘limited’ approach was in accordance with international guidelines developed by
the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) in 19931 and local
guidelines, including the NSW SIA Local Government Handbook.
In 2003, however, the IAIA adopted new principles and guidelines which broadened
SIA to include all those processes “that SIA professionals follow in order to assess
the social impacts of planned interventions or events, and to develop strategies for
the ongoing monitoring and management of those impacts”2
The IAIA’s definition of SIA – which reflects this broader purpose – is as follows:
“Social impact assessment includes the processes of analysing, monitoring
and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both
positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans,
projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions.
Its primary purpose is to bring about a more sustainable and equitable
biophysical and human environment”.
In the light of these changes, it became clear that Council’s policy required updating.
Accordingly, the Policy has been revised to reflect the new international principles
and good practice.
1 F Vanclay Principles for Social Impact Assessment: A Critical Comparison Between the International and US Documents, Environmental Impact Assessment Review 26 (2006), page 5 2 IAIA, Social Impact Assessment – International Principles, Special Publications Series 2 , May 2003, p.2
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2 What is Social Impact Assessment (SIA)?
2.1 Scope The ‘planned interventions’ (policies, programs, plans and/or projects) referred to in
the IAIA’s SIA definition may enhance (positive impact) or diminish (negative
impact) the status quo in the community in one or more of the following ways3:
1. Liveability (e.g. housing, recreation, open space, lifestyles, waste
management, water and air quality, noise and dust)
2. Community cohesion and connectedness
3. Cultural traditions, shared beliefs and customs
4. Health and wellbeing (physical and mental health, safety, personal and
community aspirations)
5. Economic prosperity (jobs, incomes, business opportunities)
6. Human rights/participatory democracy
SIA is the process of identifying where and when these changes might occur (as a
result of the interventions) and includes the enhancement of positive changes, the
elimination or mitigation of negative changes and the monitoring of interventions and
their associated impacts and mitigation requirements.
2.2 Application
In accordance with the IAIA’s new guidelines, this Policy applies to the whole
development life cycle (including strategic, program, structure and precinct planning
and land use assessment).
However, most SIA activity under the Policy will focus on the end stage of the
development life cycle (i.e. on the land use development process) because there are
many more project development events than policy change and strategic planning
events).
But, as emphasised in the IAIA’s International Principles document, SIA “is
analysing, monitoring and managing the social consequences of development” and
“should not be understood only as the task of predicting social impacts in an impact
assessment process”4
2.3 Social Sustainability Imperatives
The demand for a greater focus on social impacts has been driven through:
Increasing emphasis by Council and the community on sustainability
3 The detailed impacts, within each of these impact areas, are listed at Appendix 1. 4 IAIA, op cit, page 2
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An associated increased awareness, by planning authorities, of the need to
apply social criteria in making decisions about development and land use
Increasing emphasis on creating a cohesive, connected, caring, safe, and
equitable community
This greater emphasis on social sustainability has been incorporated into Council’s
principal corporate document, the Living Holroyd Community Strategic Plan 2011-
2031 and is also embedded in other key Council plans, including the Social Plan
(2010-12) and the 2003 Living Holroyd A Sustainable Future (Local Agenda 21 Action
Plan).
SIA will, accordingly, play a key role in supporting the Living Holroyd Community
Strategic Plan and specifically its “focus on sustainable strategies which balance a
commitment to the environment and the social cohesion of our City with its
infrastructure, assets, local economy and Council’s finances and workforce.”5
5 Living Holroyd Community Strategic Plan 2011-31
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3 Aims & Objectives of this Policy This Social Impact Assessment Policy will play a key role in proactively shaping the
social environment.
It identifies the importance and rationale for SIA and provides a framework for
ensuring that SIA is effectively integrated into Council’s decision-making processes.
Specifically, it provides a guide as to when SIA is required, how the SIA is to be
conducted and how the outcomes of SIA are to be implemented and managed.
The Policy is a key component in assisting Council to deliver a sustainable and
liveable community – one that meets the present population’s needs without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
The specific objectives of this Policy are to:
Ensure that the social impacts of all relevant interventions (new policies, plans,
projects or proposed development) are assessed and understood in Council’s
decision-making and planning
Enhance consistency and transparency in Council’s assessment of social impacts
Maximise positive social impacts and eliminate (or minimise) negative social
impacts
Generally support the objectives of Council’s Social Plan 2010-12 and the Living
Holroyd Community Strategic Plan and delivery program
The social impacts of interventions are sometimes difficult to measure and quantify.
However, by identifying potential impacts early in the process, better decisions can
be made about how to proceed with the intervention (and, where relevant, how to
mitigate any identified negative impacts). It is therefore important to ensure that
assessments are completed by technically skilled or qualified impact assessors.
The following sections detail the key requirements for effective SIA including the
following:
A clear understanding of the need to do SIA (in terms of relevant values and
principles and consistency with statutory requirements)
The clarification of when, in what circumstances and at what level SIA is
required
The development of clear, relevant and practical guidelines, for the conduct of
SIA (for Council officers, developers and other change agents)
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4 Why do SIA? The NSW environmental planning and other legislative frameworks require councils
to do SIA, at least at a minimum level.
Beyond this, the need for a vigorous SIA process is supported by a range of core
values and principles and international ‘good practice’. These underpin SIA’s
potential to contribute substantially to more sustainable and equitable human and
biophysical environments. They are summarised in the following sub-sections.
4.1 International ‘Good Practice’
The International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) is the leading global
network on best practice in the use of impact assessment for informed decision-
making regarding policies, programs, plans and projects.
IAIA was formed in 1980 to bring together researchers, practitioners, and users of
various types of impact assessment from all parts of the world. IAIA membership (of
more than 1,600) includes corporate planners and managers, public interest
advocates, government planners and administrators, private consultants and policy
analysts, university and college teachers and their students.
The IAIA adopted new principles in 2003 due to its view that the existing “SIA
Guidelines and Principles” (adopted in 1993) reflected a:
“proponent-adversary approach to SIA, where SIA was seen as a
discrete activity that occurred at the beginning of project cycle,
rather than as a process of participation, or as a process of ensuring
optimal development from the community’s perspective.
The model and philosophy of SIA that were articulated in the
Guidelines & Principles were focussed on the protection of individual
property rights – impact prediction, mitigation and compensation
mechanisms (the negative impacts on affected parties) – and not on
the betterment in wellbeing and improved sustainable livelihoods of
the whole community”6.
As a consequence, the new international principles were developed according to the
following broader concepts:
1. Social Impact Assessment includes the processes of analysing, monitoring
and managing the intended and unintended social consequences, both
positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans,
projects) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions. Its
primary purpose is to bring about a more sustainable and equitable
biophysical and human environment
6 F Vanclay Principles for Social Impact Assessment: A Critical Comparison Between the International and US Documents, Environmental Impact Assessment Review 26 (2006), pages 6-7
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2. SIA is beneficial in any context and should not just be seen as part of a
regulatory process, initiated because of environmental regulation
3. SIA should not just be ex-ante or in advance. The emphasis on ‘in advance’
highlights a view that SIA is a project-driven, responsive or reactive (rather
than proactive) once-off event, and not a community-driven process leading
to appropriate sustainable development7
4.2 Core Values
SIA seeks to ensure that planning and development outcomes are consistent with
fundamental human values, including at least the following:
The recognition and protection of human rights
Optimal standards of living for all
Democratic and inclusive participation in decision-making
The IAIA has defined core values for social impact assessment and these are detailed
at Appendix 2.
4.3 International Guiding Principles
The IAIA has documented a set of key principles for Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) practice. They are equally relevant for SIA practice and are
summarised in Table 1.
Table 1: IAIA Principles for Social Impact Assessment
Purposive The process should inform decision-making and result in appropriate levels of environmental protection and community well-being
Rigorous
The process should apply “best practicable” science, employing methodologies and techniques appropriate to address the problems being investigated
Practical
The process should result in information and outputs which assist with problem solving and are acceptable to and able to be implemented by proponents
Relevant
The process should provide sufficient, reliable and usable information for development planning and decision-making
Cost-
effective
The process should achieve the objectives of EIA within the limits of available
information, time, resources and methodology
Efficient The process should impose the minimum cost burdens in terms of time and
finance on proponents and participants consistent with meeting accepted requirements and objectives of EIA
Focused The process should concentrate on significant environmental effects and key issues (i.e. matters that need to be taken into account in making decisions)
Adaptive The process should be adjusted to the realities, issues and circumstances of the proposals under review without compromising the integrity of the process, and be iterative, incorporating lessons learned throughout the proposal's life cycle
7 Vanclay, op cit, page 10
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The IAIA has also identified and documented three sets of guiding principles
(‘fundamental principles for development’, ‘principles specific to SIA practice’ and
‘other international principles in common usage’) specifically for SIA practice.
The principles are comprehensive and are listed in full at Appendix 3.
The most important principles, organised according to the core values identified in
Section 4.1, are summarised in Table 2.
Table 2: Guiding Principles for Social Impact Assessment
Core Value Guiding Principle
Recognition and protection of human rights
Respect for human rights should underpin all actions
Recommendations should be consistent with other
relevant international principles (e.g. precautionary principle, uncertainty principle, intra-generational
equity, inter-generational equity, internalisation of costs, prevention principle)
Optimal standards of living and quality of life for all
The primary focus of all development should be positive outcomes
The term ‘the environment’ should be defined
broadly to include social and human dimensions
Planned interventions can be modified to reduce negative social impacts and enhance positive impacts
There should be a focus on socially sustainable development, with SIA contributing to the determination of best development alternative(s)
The SIA must give due consideration to the alternatives of any planned intervention
Full consideration should be given to the potential mitigation measures
Access and equity
Equity should be promoted vigorously
Diverse cultures and stakeholder interests should
be recognised and valued
Democratic and inclusive participation in decision-making
Decision-making should be just, fair and transparent
Development projects should be broadly acceptable to communities
SIA should be an integral part of the development process
Local knowledge and experience should be incorporated in any assessment
4.4 Statutory Requirements
Council’s requirements to consider social impacts are guided by legislation and
Council policy.
The legislative framework, which includes general requirements and specific
obligations, is detailed in Table 3.
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Table 3: Statutory Framework for Social Impact Assessment
Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979 Sec 79C(1)
Specifying the matters Council should take into consideration when assessing Development Applications: “The likely impacts of that development, including environmental impacts on both the natural and built environments and social and economic impacts in the locality.” (Sec 79C(1)(b))
Liquor Act 2007 Specifies the circumstances under which an application for a new liquor license, extended trading hours, or variation of a liquor license require the applicant to lodge a Community
Impact Statement (CIS) with the Office of Liquor Gaming and Racing (OLGR) and notify their
local council
Gaming Machines Act 2001 Specifies the conditions under which clubs and hotels are required to lodge a Local Impact Assessment (LIA) with the Liquor Administration
Board and with Council and other community agencies
State Environmental Planning Policy 10 Retention of low cost rental accommodation
Other Commonwealth and State legislation such as the NSW Local Government Act
1993, the NSW Disability and Services Act 1993, and the Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992
Matters arising from
Council’s policy framework in relation to developing SIA policies and guidelines
includes, but is not limited to:
Council’s Living Holroyd Community Strategic Plan
Local Environment Plan and Development Control Plans
Social Plan 2010-12
Funding agreements with Commonwealth and State government agencies
Other relevant policies (on extended trading hours, gambling, alcohol and tobacco
policies and initiatives)
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5 The Social Impact Assessment Process
5.1 Introduction The SIA process provides stakeholders with clear guidance and direction for
considering the social impacts associated with a change event.
The process consists of the following stages:
1. Determine applicability of the policy (to the specific change event)
2. Consider potential social impacts early in the planning phase of the project
3. Conduct an initial social impact scoping review.
4. Undertake a comprehensive social impact assessment (where required)
5. Outline strategies that aim to manage social impacts – including impact
mitigation and/or enhancement
The SIA process is illustrated graphically at Appendix 4.
5.2 Applicability Under this Policy, SIA is required when the potential (positive and/or negative) social
consequences of a change event are likely to impact on the way of life of the
community within Holroyd City.
In this policy, the change events include policies, plans and projects with significant
potential social consequences. Accordingly, Council requires the application of SIA in:
1. Development proposals or amendments
2. Developing and reviewing strategic land-use plans
3. Identifying the significant community impacts of new or revised Council plans,
policies, or projects
Additionally, Council has a role in reviewing the social impacts of liquor and gaming
license applications, in accordance with NSW State Government policy (and the
specific requirements of various Acts administered by the NSW Office of Liquor,
Gaming and Racing).
The specific SIA requirements - for development proposals, land use plans, policy
changes, and liquor and gaming machine license applications - are summarised in
the following sub-sections.
Development Proposals or Amendments
Council has a statutory obligation under Section 79C of the Environmental Planning
and Assessment Act to include consideration of social impacts of development
proposals, where relevant, in determining a development application (as indicated in
Section 4.3, above).
This applies to development proposals where Council is the proponent of a
development and where Council reviews and rules on the development proposals of
others.
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This policy makes Council’s statutory obligations more concrete – in specifying the
types of development which will require SIA to be done as a mandatory component
of the development proposal process.
In determining whether SIA is required, consideration will be given to:
The scale, complexity, time frame and nature of the proposal
Issues likely to be relevant to the proposal
The degree of significance of the identified issues (such as the number of people
or size of the area likely to be affected)
The communities likely to be affected by the proposal
The specific circumstances (and proposed uses) which are likely to trigger the
requirement for SIA are listed at Appendix 5.
Strategic Land Use Plans
Council now requires the assessment of social impacts as an integral component in
the development of strategic land-use plans (e.g. Local Environment Plan).
This will allow Council to update its statutory planning instruments, with full
knowledge of the possible social impacts of any proposed changes. Specifically, the
SIA will:
Identify the potential impacts of the changes proposed
Estimate potential demand for community facilities and services
Identify opportunities to manage both positive and negative impacts
Provide Council and future developers with a range of information about potential
residents and their needs
Consideration of social impacts will be undertaken before the land use plan is
adopted, to ensure there is opportunity for modification to the plan and that the
social impact implications are addressed.
New or Revised Council Policies, Plans or Projects
Council now requires the assessment of social impacts of new or revised Council
projects, policies, or plans that may affect significant8 social change processes.
The SIA process will be integrated into key Council reporting processes to expand the
social impact information available for decision-making.
Through this process Council will develop a better understanding of the impacts of
change on local communities, and this will support the development of key Council
policies, plans and projects (including social policy, access and equity issues, major
events, grants programs and social infrastructure projects).
Liquor and Gaming License Applications
Under NSW State legislation, social impact assessments are required for:
8 But not including projects, policies, or plans (such as minor works, erection of signage, or parks maintenance) that trigger only minor social changes
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Extensions of trading hours and alterations, additions or refurbishment at
licensed premises (Liquor Act 2007), and
Applications to increase gaming machines at licensed premises (Gaming Machines
Act 2001).
While this Policy does not apply to the social impact assessments required under
these Acts (called Community Impact Statements and Local Impact Assessments,
respectively), Council does have a role in the respective assessment processes.
Both Acts provide opportunities for community and Council input into relevant
decisions and actions – as summarised at Appendix 6.9
5.3 Early Consideration Potential social impacts should be identified and considered as early as possible in
the planning stage of the project (whether a development proposal or major change
in policy). Where appropriate and possible, strategies to manage or mitigate the
identified impacts should be incorporated into the project plan.
5.4 Initial Scoping Review
Social Impact Comment
For all applicable change events, the proponent of the development, project, policy,
or plan (whether developer, Council officer, or Council appointed expert) is required
to prepare an initial scoping review in the form of a Social Impact Comment (SIC).
The applicable change events are ALL those matters identified in section 5.2, above,
except those itemised in Table 4 which are exempt from the requirement to conduct
a SIC. These events are either minor development proposals OR more significant
development proposals at locations where comprehensive social impact assessments
were undertaken at the structure and/or precinct planning stages for those locations
and where the proposals conform with the specific zoning and other statutory
planning requirements for those locations.
Table 4: Exemptions from Social Impact Assessment
Change Event Specific development proposal Type
Residential development Dwelling Alterations and Additions
Detached Dwellings
Outbuildings (such as detached garages and carports, cabanas and sheds)
Secondary Dwellings / Family Support Accommodation
Commercial development Use of Shops, Offices, Factories or Warehouses (including any
associated fitout)
Outdoor Dining
Signs and Advertising Structures
All development types Demolition only (except for heritage items)
Subdivision of buildings
All other change events (new Council policies and statutory plans) and all non-
exempted development proposals require a SIC.
9 Further details are provided on the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing website (www.olgr.nsw.gov.au)
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The SIC is the first step in the social impact assessment process. Its purpose is to:
Identify any impacts that are directly related to the proposed change event
Demonstrate the connection between the change event and the forecast impacts
Assist with early identification of specific issues and enable modification of the
proposal to mitigate any potential negative impacts and enhance any potential
positive impacts
Determine whether or not the forecast impacts are significant and, therefore,
whether a Comprehensive SIA Report will be required
Development proponents are encouraged to prepare the SIC prior to lodging a
development application and early in the development process (at the pre-lodgment
stage).
The proponent can self-determine the need for a Comprehensive SIA Report (as
described in Section 5.5, below) where significant social impacts are anticipated.
Also strongly recommended is discussion of the proposed approach to conduct of the
SIC at a pre-lodgment meeting with Council. These meetings may identify mitigation
strategies that change the form or layout of the proposed development, and this
early input has the potential to shorten the length of the DA process significantly.
Types of Impacts
Because change events and their particular social contexts are unique, SIA needs to
be tailored to the individual circumstances of each case. SIA is an iterative rather
than formulaic process – with matters for consideration best developed on a case-by-
case basis.
A ‘Positive/Negative Impact matrix’ – as advocated by Ziller10 and illustrated in Table
5 – can assist this process.
Table 5: Cost-Benefit Matrix for Social Impact Assessment
Who is Impacted? Benefits (Positive impacts) Costs (Negative impacts)
Non-Financial Financial Non-Financial Financial
Individuals
Households
Neighbourhoods
Business sector
NGO’s
Whole community
As shown in the matrix, change events may have positive impacts (benefits) or
negative impacts (costs). The impacts may be financial or non-financial or a
combination of both – and they may affect individuals, households, groups,
neighbourhoods and/or the whole community.
10 Dr Alison Ziller, Social Impact Assessment course notes, Urban Research Centre, University of Western Sydney, October 2010
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The non-financial impacts will include both quantifiable and non-quantifiable items.
The non-quantifiable (or intangible) items need to have descriptions in text of their
respective positive and/or negative impacts.
Quantifiable and non-quantifiable impacts are both potentially important. They must
be addressed with equal consideration.
The ‘Positive/Negative Impact matrix’ is the key tool in SIA – both at the scoping and
detailed assessment phases of the process.
Content of the SIC
The SIC scoping review entails basic research about the community likely to be
impacted by the proposal and consideration of how to enhance positive social
impacts and mitigate negative social impacts.
Proponents of change events are required to complete the Initial Review Pro-forma
(as attached at Appendix 7 and provided on Council’s website at Appendix 7 - SIC
Scoping Review Pro-Forma)
This form requires:
The identification of potential social impacts (consistent with the ‘cost-benefit
matrix’ approach)11
An assessment as to whether, for each of the identified social impacts, the
impacts are likely to be significant (‘yes’ or ‘no’)
A description of the nature of the impact
A description of any enhancement measures (for positive impacts) and/or
mitigation measures (for negative impacts) proposed to be undertaken
Proponents can also provide additional information, where relevant, to support or
justify their assessment.
5.5 Comprehensive Social Impact Assessment What is a Comprehensive Social Impact Assessment (CSIA) Report?
A CSIA is an in-depth assessment of the potential social impacts of a change event.
It entails a more detailed analysis of the issues identified in the SIC scoping review,
an outline of the methodology used in conduct of the CSIA, and an outline of the
research undertaken (including communication and consultation with the impacted
communities and key stakeholders).
The CSIA report is also to include an Impact Management Plan (IMP) to provide
strategies and monitoring mechanisms to help enhance positive social impacts and
mitigate negative social impacts (as detailed in section 5.8 below).
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While the ‘cost-benefit matrix’ approach can be used in conjunction with checklists of impacts (such as
that provided at Appendix 1) it is important to recognise that each change event is unique with a unique set of potential impacts. Accordingly, checklists should be regarded as guides on matters to consider, not prescriptions
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When is a CSIA Report required?
A CSIA Report will normally be required for the development proposals listed in Table
6 (unless the SIC scoping review determines that this is unnecessary).
Table 6: Developments requiring Comprehensive Social Impact Assessment
Development Category Specific Development Proposal Type
Residential Housing development that significantly changes population density (i.e. residential subdivisions)
Multi-unit residential development of 50 or more dwellings
Commercial/Industrial Any mixed commercial/residential development
Retail complex
Entertainment complex such as cinemas, amusement centres, rave parties
Change in use of industrial area to residential
Tourist development
Licensed premises, clubs and nightclubs
Transport Public transport facilities
Major roads, arterial or transport corridors
Community Drug rehabilitation services
Medical institutions such as a hospital, drug
rehabilitation centre
All Any development requiring the preparation of a Masterplan or Precinct Plan
A CSIA Report is not required where the change event is:
1. A development proposal exempt from social impact assessment (as listed in
Table 4, above), or
2. A development proposal that is deemed to not have the potential for significant
negative impacts (as listed in Table 7, below).
Table 7: Exemptions from Comprehensive Social Impact Assessment
Development Category Specific Development Proposal Type
Residential Multi-unit residential development less than 50 dwellings
Commercial Commercial or Industrial use under “existing use rights”
Commercial / Non-conforming use of heritage items
Community Childcare Centres including Out Of School Hours (OOSH)
Educational establishments
Opportunity shops
Minor health facilities (e.g. doctor and dental surgeries)
Group homes
Expand or change of non conforming “existing” use
Refuges
All Demolition of heritage items
A CSIA Report is required for all other change events where one or more social
impacts are assessed as being both negative and significant.
When is a social impact significant?
Criteria to be used in assessing significance include the following:
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The degree of change likely to arise relative to existing circumstances and
planned outcomes (as documented in Council’s strategic plans)
The number and nature of people likely to be affected
Whether the impact will be direct or indirect
The duration of the impact
The level of community perception that the development will cause significant
negative social impacts
The potential for cumulative impacts
The assessment of significance applies to the development application (or other
change event) as submitted (i.e. prior to the application of mitigating measures to
reduce identified impacts).
A model to guide the determination of ‘significance’ of social impacts is provided at
Appendix 8.
What types of impacts should be considered?
The CSIA study will address impacts identified in the SIC scoping review (but in
greater detail) as well as those identified through the additional research and
preparation for the CSIA.
What information is required for a CSIA Report?
The CSIA study will need to address:
Temporary (e.g. during construction) and permanent (e.g. post-construction)
impacts
Direct12 and indirect13 impacts
The potential for cumulative impacts14
The significance of potential impacts
The types and amounts of information required for the CSIA study will depend on the
types of impacts (positive or negative), the significance of those impacts and the
potential measures (if any) needed to enhance or mitigate the identified impacts.
For development applications, potential negative impacts need to be identified early
(in the site analysis and development stages, if possible) and strategies developed to
manage or mitigate the impacts.
A detailed guideline for preparing a CSIA report is provided at Appendix 9.
5.6 Community & Stakeholder Consultation Scope of the consultation program
12 Direct Impacts are caused by the proposed change event and occur at the time and place of the proposal. 13 Indirect Impacts are caused by the change event but occur later in time and/or over a greater geographical area (e.g. impacts on community cohesion and changes in the cultural diversity of an area) 14 Cumulative Impacts are the summed impacts of multiple individual projects (each of which may be small at the individual project level, but which, when added to the impacts of other current and past and future projects, become significant). Failure to identify and manage cumulative impacts can result in social sustainability ‘death by a thousand cuts’.
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Consultation programs should be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case
(in terms of type and scale of impacts) and the aims of the SIA.
Accordingly, the design and implementation of communications and the engagement
of stakeholders should be based on the following key considerations:
The likelihood of significant negative social impacts
Numbers of individuals/groups potentially affected by the identified impacts
The need for individuals/groups to be involved in the design of mitigation or
enhancement measures, or in the monitoring/evaluation process
While consultation is not mandatory for the SIC scoping review, people directly
affected by a proposal (e.g. neighbours adjacent to a proposed development) should
ideally be consulted. Where the proponent has undertaken discussions with
stakeholders, the results of these discussions should be summarised in the SIC scoping
review (as part of the scoping pro-forma).
For the CSIA study, stakeholder communications and consultations should enable
participation by all groups that will potentially be impacted by the proposal.
Accordingly, applicants preparing CSIA Reports should provide Council with at least the
following:
Evidence of efforts to understand and consider the concerns and aspirations of
affected communities, including traditional owners
Measures taken to raise awareness of the relevant issue(s) (e.g. on-site billboards,
targeted letter drops or open meetings)
Evidence that community and stakeholder feedback has been fully considered and
where feasible and appropriate, incorporated in the plan/proposal
A list of individuals and groups consulted during preparation of the CSIA Report
Who should be consulted?
For the CSIA study, consultations must include those groups and individuals directly
and indirectly impacted by the proposal. This will usually mean that consultation
activities will extend beyond immediate neighbours, to also include:
Wider geographically based communities, (e.g. residents of whole streets - owner
occupiers and tenants, people working from home, commercial operators and
special interest groups
Key stakeholder groups in the affected area (e.g. environmental and community
groups, service providers, representatives of significant cultural or religious groups)
Aboriginal communities and service providers
Wider stakeholder groups representing non–geographic interests (e.g. heritage
groups, sporting groups etc)
What type of community consultation should be undertaken?
Community consultation should be tailored to the particular circumstances of the
change event (development or planning project). A checklist of consultation techniques
(and guidance on using them) is included at Appendix 10.
5.7 Competency to Undertake SIA
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Project proponents are expected to ensure that the SIA process is completed by a
skilled provider.
A Comprehensive SIA Report must be undertaken by an appropriately qualified and
experienced professional. The principal consultant preparing this Report must have:
Qualifications in social or urban/town planning
Demonstrated competent experience in undertaking Social Impact Assessment
Information to assist applicants to select a suitable person to undertake SIA (a SIC
and/or a CSIA) is provided at Appendix 11.
Council will reject a CSIA that has not been prepared by a professional with the
appropriate qualifications and/or experience.
5.8 Social Impact Management Plan
The purpose of the Impact Management Plan (IMP) is to document and guide the
implementation of impact mitigation and enhancement strategies for development
projects.
The IMP is prepared as one component of the CSIA Report. It will influence the
specific Conditions of Consent (i.e. the minimum performance outcomes required of
the development to enhance positive and/or mitigate negative social impacts).
The IMP will include:
A description of potential impacts
Criteria for establishing acceptable levels of impact
Strategies to enhance positive impacts and mitigate negative impacts
Performance Indicators (for assessing the outcomes of these strategies)
Monitoring and reporting processes to measure performance against the
indicators
Options for dealing with shortfalls in the desired performance levels
Methods for community involvement in the monitoring/evaluation process
Means of reporting performance to stakeholders and the community
Procedures for reviewing and updating the IMP
At a minimum, the IMP will cover each significant (positive and/or negative) impact
identified within the CSIA Report.
The IMP will cover all stages of a project where impacts can potentially occur (e.g.
for development projects, both the construction and post-construction phases of the
project).
19
APPENDIX 1 – CHECKLIST OF SOCIAL IMPACTS*
Broad area of change/impact Specific Impacts
Enhanced or diminished social & cultural capital
Community cohesion and stability
Social networks, Community connectedness (belonging), Community cohesion (actual and perceived), Social equity/inclusiveness,
Social tension/violence
Family cohesion and stability
Change in family structure, Family obligations, Family violence/dysfunction
Shared beliefs, customs,
values and language or dialect
Desecration of sacred sites,
Respect for local culture/traditions, Cultural marginalisation, Language/dialect loss, Loss/damage to cultural heritage
Enhanced or
diminished liveability (resulting from changes to community infrastructure)
Housing Availability, affordability, quality
(actual and perceived)
Recreation & open space Recreation opportunities, Aesthetic/visual qualities
Waste management services Adequacy of waste and sanitation
Neighbourhood amenity Noise, Litter/graffiti
Other services and facilities Physical infrastructure adequacy, Social infrastructure adequacy,
Access to services and facilities
Enhanced or diminished liveability (resulting from changes in the
natural & physical environment)
Quality of air and water Environment quality (actual and perceived), Loss/damage to natural heritage
Level of hazard or risk, dust and noise
Safety hazards (actual and perceived)
Enhanced or diminished health & wellbeing
Nutrition Number of healthy food outlets
Exercise/physical activity Neighbourhood links and
connectivity for walking, cycling, physical health (actual and perceived), Smoking, gambling & alcohol outlets
Mental, social and spiritual
wellbeing (not merely the absence of disease)
Mental health
Perceptions about safety Crime and violence (actual and perceived)
Personal aspirations for the future (including future of children)
Health aspirations, Independence/autonomy
Enhanced or diminished economic
prosperity
Standard of living Employment/living wage, Business opportunity,
Education/training, Economic prosperity/resilience, Income,
20
Broad area of change/impact Specific Impacts
Property values,
Economic dependency, Cost of environmental damage, Debt burden
Enhanced or diminished human
rights/participatory democracy
The extent to which people are able to participate in
decisions that affect their lives
Government agency functioning, Integrity of agency officers,
Tenure, Subsidiarity (i.e. decisions made as close to affected populations as possible), Human rights, Community participation (in decision-making),
Access to legal advice/assistance, Impact equity
Personal disadvantage which may include a violation of their civil
liberties
Moral outrage, Stigmatisation
Gender equity Women’s physical integrity, Personal autonomy/independence, Division of labour – workforce, Division of labour – household, Divison of labour – childcare,
Political engagement of women
*Adapted from Frank Vanclay (2002) Conceptualising Social Impacts in Environmental Impact Assessment Review, Vol 22 pp 183-211
21
APPENDIX 2 – CORE VALUES FOR SIA
The International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) has defined impact
assessment core values in the terms listed in the right-hand column of the following
table:
Value type Core values Recognition and protection of human rights
There are fundamental human rights that are shared equally across cultures, and by males and females alike.
There is a right to have those fundamental human rights protected by the rule of law, with justice applied equally and fairly to all, and available to all.
Optimal standards of living
for all
People have a right to live and work in an environment
which is conducive to good health and to a good quality of life and which enables the development of human and social potential.
Social dimensions of the environment – peace, the quality
of social relationships, freedom from fear, and belongingness – are important aspects of people’s health and quality of life.
Democratic and inclusive
participation in decision-making
People have a right to be involved in the decision-making
about the planned interventions that will affect their lives. Local knowledge and experience are valuable and can be
used to enhance planned interventions.
22
APPENDIX 3 – UNDERPINNING PRINCIPLES FOR SIA
The IAIA has articulated ‘fundamental principles for development’ and ‘principles specific to SIA practice’15. These are
summarised in the following table according to their relevance to the ‘core values’ of SIA (as detailed at Appendix 2):
Core values Fundamental principles for development
Principles specific to SIA practice
There are fundamental human
rights that are shared equally across cultures, and by males and females alike.
Respect for human rights should underpin all
actions
The existence of diversity between cultures,
within cultures, and the diversity of stakeholder interests need to be recognised and valued
Equity considerations should be a fundamental element
of impact assessment and of development planning
There is a right to have those fundamental human rights protected by the rule of law, with justice applied equally and fairly to all, and available to all.
Promoting equity and democratisation should be the major driver of development planning, and impacts on the worst-off members of
society should be a major consideration in all assessment
Developmental processes that infringe the human rights of any section of society should not be accepted
People have a right to live and work in an environment which is conducive to good health and a good quality of life and
which enables the development of human and social potential.
The primary focus of all development should be
positive outcomes, such as capacity building, empowerment, and the realisation of human and social potential
SIA should be an integral part of the development
process, involved in all stages from inception to follow-up audit
Planned interventions can be modified to reduce their
negative social impacts and enhance their positive impacts
Socially sustainable development should be a focus -
with SIA contributing to the determination of best development options (rather than just being an arbiter between economic benefits and social costs)
Social dimensions of the environment – specifically but not exclusively peace, the quality of social relationships, freedom from fear, and belongingness – are important aspects of people’s health and
quality of life.
The term, ‘the environment’, should be defined broadly to include social and human
dimensions, and in such inclusion, care must be taken to ensure that adequate attention is given to the realm of the social
In all planned interventions and their assessments, avenues should be developed to build the social and
human capital of local communities and to strengthen democratic process
In all planned interventions, but especially where there
are unavoidable impacts, ways to turn impacted peoples into beneficiaries should be investigated
The SIA must give due consideration to the alternatives
of any planned intervention, but especially in cases
15
Frank Vanclay (2003), Social Impact Assessment – International Principles, International Association of Impact Assessment, Special Publications Series No. 2
23
Core values Fundamental principles for development
Principles specific to SIA practice
when there are likely to be unavoidable impacts
Full consideration should be given to the potential
mitigation measures of social and environmental impacts, even where impacted communities may approve the planned intervention and where they may be regarded as beneficiaries
People have a right to be
involved in the decision
making about the planned interventions that will affect their lives.
Decision-making should be just, fair and
transparent, and decision makers should be
accountable for their decisions
Development projects should be broadly
acceptable to the members of those communities likely to benefit from, or be
affected by, the planned intervention
Many of the social impacts of planned interventions can
be predicted
There should be no use of violence, harassment,
intimidation or undue force in connection with the assessment or implementation of a planned intervention
Local knowledge and experience are valuable and can be used to enhance planned interventions.
The opinions and views of experts should not be the sole consideration in decisions about
planned interventions
Local knowledge and experience and acknowledgment of different local cultural values should be incorporated
in any assessment
OTHER INTERNATIONAL PRINCIPLES
Declaration on the Right to Development (1986)
Article 1 states that:
“The right to development is an inalienable human right by virtue of which every human person and all peoples are entitled to
participate in, contribute to, and enjoy economic, social, cultural and political development, in which all human rights and
fundamental freedoms can be fully realized. The human right to development also implies the full realization of the right of
peoples to self-determination, which includes, subject to the relevant provisions of both International Covenants on Human
Rights, the exercise of their inalienable right to full sovereignty over all their natural wealth and resources.”
Rio Declaration on Environment and Development (1992)
Principle 1: “Human beings are at the centre of concerns for sustainable development. They are entitled to a healthy and
productive life in harmony with nature.”
Principle 17: calls for impact assessment to be undertaken.
24
Other International Agreements and Declarations
Frank Vanclay (a leading SIA writer and academic) has observed that, while international declarations rarely give adequate
emphasis to social issues and impacts, their relevance to social impacts is implied. Accordingly, he has provided the following
list of international principles (in common usage) rewritten to apply more directly to social issues16.
Principle Explanation
Precautionary Principle
In order to protect the environment, a concept which includes peoples’ ways of life and the integrity
of their communities, the precautionary approach shall be applied. Where there are threats or potential threats of serious social impact, lack of full certainty about those threats should not be used as a reason for approving the planned intervention or not requiring the implementation of mitigation measures and stringent monitoring.
Uncertainty Principle It must be recognised that our knowledge of the social world and of social processes is incomplete
and that social knowledge can never be fully complete because the social environment and the processes affecting it are changing constantly, and vary from place to place and over time.
Intra-generational Equity
The benefits from the range of planned interventions should address the needs of all, and the social
impacts should not fall disproportionately on certain groups of the population, in particular children and women, people with a disability and the socially excluded, certain generations or certain regions.
Inter-generational Equity
Development activities or planned interventions should be managed so that the needs of the present generation are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Recognition and Preservation of Diversity
Communities and societies are not homogenous. They are demographically structured (age and
gender), and they comprise different groups with various value systems and different skills. Special attention is needed to appreciate the existence of the social diversity that exists within communities and to understand what the unique requirements of special groups may be. Care must be taken to ensure that planned interventions do not lead to a loss of social diversity in a community or a diminishing of social cohesion.
Internalisation of Costs
The full social and ecological costs of a planned intervention should be internalised through the use of economic and other instruments, that is, these costs should be considered as part of the costs of the
intervention, and no intervention should be approved or regarded as cost-effective if it achieves this by the creation of hidden costs to current or future generations or the environment.
The Polluter Pays Principle
The proponent of any planned intervention should bear the full costs of avoiding or compensating for any associated social impacts.
The Prevention Principle It is generally preferable and cheaper in the long run to prevent negative social impacts and ecological damage from happening than having to restore or rectify damage after the event.
The Protection and Promotion of Health and safety are paramount. All planned interventions should be assessed for their health
16 Frank Vanclay, Ibid pp 6-7
25
Principle Explanation
Health and Safety
impacts and their accident risks, especially in terms of assessing and managing the risks from
hazardous substances, technologies or processes, so that their harmful effects are minimised, including not bringing them into use or phasing them out as soon as possible. Health impacts cover the physical, mental and social wellbeing and safety of all people, paying particular attention to those groups of the population who are more vulnerable and more likely to be harmed, such as the economically deprived, indigenous groups, children and women, the elderly, people with a disability, as well as to the population most exposed to risks arising from the planned intervention.
Multi-Sector Integration
Social development requirements and the need to consider social issues should be properly integrated into all projects, policies, infrastructure programs and other planning activities.
Subsidiarity
Decision-making power should be decentralised, with accountable decisions being made as close to an
individual citizen as possible. In the context of SIA, this means decisions about the approval of planned interventions, or conditions under which they might operate, should be taken as close to the affected people as possible, with local people having an input into the approval and management processes.
26
Officer’s request
Officers recommend
Self-determine
Identify if development proposal triggers application of this Policy
Site Analysis & Development Design (Consider potential Social Impacts)
Pre-lodgment Meeting (To discuss completed IR Pro-forma,
mitigation measures & whether a Comprehensive SIA Report will be
required)
Lodge DA (With IR Pro-forma or Comprehensive
SIA Report)
Information Request
Information Response
Council Decision
Implementation (Mitigation measures consistent with
Council’s decision & attached conditions)
Undertake SIC scoping review (Complete Initial Review Pro-Forma)
Comprehensive SIA Report (Lodge with DA or discuss at pre-
lodgment meeting)
Comprehensive SIA Report or the inclusion of mitigation measures
with lodgment of DA
Comprehensive SIA Report or the inclusion of mitigation measures
APPENDIX 4 - SIA PROCESS
27
APPENDIX 5 – CIRCUMSTANCES THAT TRIGGER THE NEED FOR
SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The requirement for SIA is triggered when a proposed change event is likely to:
Underlying core value
Significantly alter the need for community facilities and/or services;
Impact on the health or safety of an area Reduce accessibility Change the hours or pattern of activity, psychological
amenity or other factors that may impact on the amenity of an area
People have a right to live and work in an environment which is conducive to good health and to a good quality of life which enables the development of human and
social potential.
Result in an unanticipated significant change to the existing character and identity of a community
Cause a significant change in population characteristics of the area affected by the development
Impact on particular target groups including indigenous people, children, aged people, people with disabilities and non-English speaking people;
Result in an imbalance of activity or a particular population group in an area (e.g. a licensed premises or aged housing)
Social dimensions of the environment (peace, the quality of social relationships, freedom from
fear, and belongingness) are important aspects of people’s health and quality of life.
Entail a high level of controversy or political sensitivity Require the preparation of a structure plan, concept plan,
master plan or plan of development (due to the scale, intensity or complexity of the development project)
Result in any other circumstance where the local
government considers that SIA is appropriate before a development can be adequately considered, or where there is likely to be significant community concern
People have a right to be involved in the decision making about the planned interventions that will affect
their lives.
The above-listed impacts are likely to be associated with the following (non-
exclusive) listing of change event types:
Change event Category Specific change event Type
Strategic, Social and Land
Use Planning
LEP and DCP
Structure and Precinct Plans S94 plans
Other land use and statutory plans Community Strategic Plan Social, Health, Environmental and economic plans
Residential/housing development
Major housing developments (e.g. urban expansion, infill or renewal sites) that require rezoning and/or result in:
o significant changes to existing urban character o significant population change/growth o large self contained new communities o significant increase in the demand for community
services and facilities
Specialist housing (including aged persons housing,
28
Change event Category Specific change event Type
emergency housing and hostels)
Community facilities development
New (or significant alterations to) existing major public venues (e.g. education facilities, hospitals and medical centres outside business zones, libraries, and large community centres)
Any facilities/uses adjoining a community services facility New child care facilities in low density residential zones Youth centres Places of public worship
Sport and recreation
facilities development
Development of major indoor and outdoor sport/recreation
facilities (e.g. amusement parks, theme parks, sporting facilities)
Entertainment facilities (Cinemas, Amusement centres,
Rave parties) more than 500m2
Commercial facilities development
New retail or commercial premises in CBD or suburban locations which require rezoning and/or are larger than 10,000m2
Significant alterations to existing centres Licensed premises (covered by State Government
legislation – as detailed at Appendix 7) Tourist facilities (tourist park or tourist accommodation)
Industrial development Designated Development, and Any developments in General Industrial that generate
significant traffic, environmental emissions or safety issues that may negatively impact amenity and/or health
Transport development Transport infrastructure projects that may negatively
impact on neighbourhood accessibility, character and
amenity – including public transport facilities and major roads, arterial or transport corridors
29
APPENDIX 6 - LIQUOR AND GAMING LICENSE APPLICATIONS
Legislation Impact assessment requirement Council’s role
Liquor Act
An application for a liquor license (or license-related variation) requires the applicant to lodge a Community Impact Statement (CIS) with the Casino, Liquor and Gaming Control Authority (CLGCA).
The CIS is a summary of community consultation on issues/concerns surrounding the application and allows CLGCA to gauge the significance of
impacts.
There are 2 categories (A and B) ranked according to the scale and type of application. Higher impact proposals (category B) require more extensive consultation.
For both categories, applicants are required to notify councils (and police) of their intention to lodge a liquor license application and to provide them with a copy of the CIS when it is lodged with the CLGCA.
Council reviews all liquor license applications it receives and, where appropriate, makes submissions to the CLGCA. Additional details on roles and processes is
available at:
http://www.olgr.nsw.gov.au/liquor_CIS_home.asp
Gaming Machines Act
Registered clubs and hotels are required to lodge a Local Impact Assessment (LIA) with the Liquor Administration Board (LAB) when applying to increase their gaming machine threshold.
There are two types of gaming
machine LIA (class 1 and class 2) depending on the local government area (Band 1, 2 or 3) and the amount of increase sought.
Both class 1 and 2 LIA’s must be lodged with the LAB (with copies provided to the local council and police). Councils (and other stakeholders) then have 30 days to make submissions to the LAB.
Class 1 LIA’s must demonstrate that the
increase in machines “will provide a positive
contribution toward the local community”.
Class 2 LIA’s must demonstrate that the increase in machines “will have an overall positive impact on the local community”.
Council’s policy is to review all gaming
machine threshold applications received under the Act and to make submissions to the LAB on matters of public interest. Additional details on roles and processes is available at:
http://www.olgr.nsw.gov.au/gaming_lia.asp
30
APPENDIX 7 - SIC SCOPING REVIEW PRO-FORMA
Instructions for completing this form
Proponents of impact-assessable developments must complete all pages of this form.
The completed form should either be submitted to Council prior to a pre-lodgment meeting (where a pre-lodgment meeting has
been requested by Council) or submitted with the development application (unless it has been determined that a CSIA Report is
required and is submitted with the development application instead).
Social Impact Initial Review
Contact Details: Proposal Details:
Name Lot Number & Registered Plan Number
Postal Address Site Address
Email Brief Description of Development Proposal
Phone Mobile
1. POPULATION CHANGE
Will the development result in significant change/s to the local area’s population (either permanent and/or temporary)?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Changes to the size, structure and capacity of the population can have significant implications for the provision/adequacy of community facilities/services,
community cohesion and/or social sustainability
31
2. HOUSING
Will the proposal improve or reduce the quantity, quality, mix, accessibility and/or affordability of housing?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
A mix of housing types, sizes and costs is necessary for social diversity (in terms of ages, family life cycles, incomes, cultural backgrounds) and social inclusiveness.
Retention/expansion of affordable housing is necessary for social equity and to avoid displacement of low-income persons and families
3. MOBILITY & ACCESS
Will the development improve or reduce physical access to and from places, spaces and transport?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
‘Access for all’ is an essential component of a fair and equitable society.
Additionally, accessible developments foster inclusive communities, maximise access to public transport, pedestrian and cycle networks and provide convenient and continuous paths of travel (thereby promoting healthy, sustainable lifestyles)
4. COMMUNITY & RECREATION FACILITIES/SERVICES
Will the development increase, decrease or change the demand/need for community, cultural and recreation services and facilities?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Access to diverse and adequate community and recreation services and facilities is necessary for physical and mental health, well-being, personal productivity, social cohesion and social sustainability
32
5. CULTURAL VALUES/BELIEFS
Will the development strengthen or threaten cultural or community values and beliefs?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Cultural values include places, items or qualities of cultural or community significance or importance.
They provide significant meanings and reference points for individuals and groups.
The celebration and protection of cultural values is a key element in building strong and resilient communities.
6. COMMUNITY IDENTITY & CONNECTEDNESS
Will the development strengthen or threaten social cohesion and integration within and between communities?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Social cohesion and integration require, in part, places and spaces for informal and safe social interaction.
Developments can increase or decrease these interaction opportunities through their provision (or otherwise) of safe and connected pathways and linkages and attractive gathering places (parks, squares, civic spaces, streets).
7. HEALTH & WELLBEING
Will the development strengthen or
threaten opportunities for healthy lifestyles, healthy pursuits, physical activity & other forms of leisure activity?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of
negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Developments can increase or decrease opportunities for healthy lifestyles through increasing or decreasing the livability of places (in terms of safety, noise, dust, aesthetics) or increasing or decreasing opportunities for:
walking, cycling, play and other physical activity;
healthy food choices;
drinking, gambling and smoking.
33
8. CRIME & SAFETY
Will the development increase or reduce public safety and opportunities for crime (perceived and/or actual)?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Developments can increase or decrease safety (perceived and actual) (e.g. through generating increased traffic, providing venues that may attract unruly behaviour).
This can diminish social cohesion and integration – but can be mitigated by appropriate design (CPTED), traffic controls and management
9. LOCAL ECONOMY & EMPLOYMENT
Will the development increase or reduce the quantity and/or diversity of local employment opportunities (temporary and/or permanent)?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Unemployment and low income are associated with poor health and reduced social inclusiveness and resilience.
Accessible and diverse local jobs (suited to the capacities of local populations) reduce the risk of unemployment (and the associated poorer health and social sustainability outcomes).
10. NEEDS OF POPULATION GROUPS
Will the development increase or decrease inclusive opportunities (social, cultural, recreational, employment, governance) for groups in the community with special needs?
Yes If ‘Yes’, briefly describe the Impacts below Describe your proposed mitigations (of negative impacts) or enhancements (of positive impacts) below
No
Explanation:
Council has an Access and Equity Policy which promotes access to life opportunities (e.g. jobs, education, full participation in the cultural life of the community) and inclusiveness for all (including those with special needs – youth, aged, CALD, Aboriginals, people with disabilities, children, women etc).
Developments can increase inclusiveness through the provision of culturally-appropriate facility design and
programs and the avoidance of communication barriers.
34
APPENDIX 8 - DETERMINING LEVELS OF IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE
Assessment Criteria
Neutral (neither positive
or negative)
Minor Impact (positive or negative)
Significant Impact (positive or negative)
Degree of change likely to arise relative to existing circumstances
Insignificant/ No change
Some change, but of low significance
High level of change
The number and nature
of people affected
None A small number of
people (e.g. immediate neighbours)
A large number of people (e.g.
neighbours, local community, groups with special needs)
Substantial effects on
disadvantaged people
Whether the impact will be direct or indirect
No impact Indirect Impact Direct Impact
Duration of impacts N/a Less than a year More than a year
Community perception that a development will cause significant negative social impacts
None Low level of reaction from the people affected
High level of reaction from people affected (may include neighbours, locality or wider community)
Potential for cumulative impacts
Insignificant/ None
Low likelihood of increase in overall impacts in the locality
High likelihood of substantial accumulation of impacts beyond those envisaged in Council’s strategic plans
35
APPENDIX 9 - HOW TO PREPARE A COMPREHENSIVE SIA REPORT
The following steps for preparing a Social Impact Assessment have been adapted
from Appendix 7 of the Gold Coast Planning Scheme, Draft Policy 21 – Social and
Health Impact Assessment Policy.
Scoping and
Profiling
1. Define the study area (the ‘locality’)
2. Establish a baseline demographic profile for the locality
3. Identify individuals/groups likely to be affected by the proposal
4. Collect data on existing social conditions, community facilities and services and relevant community values in the locality
5. Design a community consultation strategy to include all stakeholders
6. Collect any other necessary data
Prediction 1. Implement the community consultation process
2. Identify the ways in which stakeholders are likely to be affected
3. Review relevant trends and social issues
4. Predict how the proposed development will impact (negatively and/or positively) the trends and social conditions in the locality
5. Consider strategies to enhance positive and mitigate negative impacts 6. Compare social conditions before and after the forecast changes (resulting from the development) and enhancement/mitigation strategies
Assessment and
Evaluation
1. Assess the significance of predicted impacts (including the potential for cumulative impacts)
2. Identify possible alternatives (including ”no development” options) and
their advantages and disadvantages for different stakeholders
3. Evaluate the alternatives
Recommendations 1. Identify strategy options for enhancing positive and mitigating negative impacts
2. Evaluate the options (re acceptance by stakeholders, practicality, costs and benefits, management requirements and affect on project viability)
3. Make recommendations, including consideration of:
Whether positive social impacts outweigh negative social impacts;
Whether negative impacts can be mitigated to acceptable levels
Whether positive impacts can be significantly enhanced
Impact Mitigation
Plan
Develop an Impact Management Plan which includes:
1. Strategies to enhance positive and mitigate negative impacts
2. Contingency plans to respond to potential future problems
3. Monitoring and response plans (where relevant)
4. Community consultation programs re the proposed strategies
5. Procedures for periodically reviewing and updating the IMP
36
APPENDIX 10 - COMMUNITY CONSULTATION METHODS/OPTIONS
Technique Objective
Affected Community
Neig
hb
ou
rs
Lo
cal
Str
eet
Lo
cal
Sta
ke-
ho
lder
Gro
up
s
Wid
er
Co
mm
un
ity
Gro
up
s
Letters Informing the community
Brochures and Information
updates/leaflets
Media releases
Signage on land
Display
Questionnaires Informing the community and
obtaining specific feedback
Discussions with adjoining property owners
Information exchange, involving the community and obtaining some feedback
Street meetings Information exchange, involving the community and obtaining feedback
Community meetings
Personal interviews
Workshops Information exchange, educating, involving the affected community
and obtaining specific and broad feedback
Community advisory committee
Information exchange, educating and involving the community, building support and obtaining
feedback on a wide range of issues
37
APPENDIX 11 - COMPETENCY TO UNDERTAKE SIA
This Policy requires that a CSIA must be completed by a qualified person.
The following checklist is provided to assist with the selection of a suitable
consultant (one who can provide a well informed, quality assessment, using
appropriate methodology, data and analysis).
Criteria Details
Does the consultant have qualifications and/or substantial field experience in the relevant technical area?
E.g. Qualifications in social science, human geography, urban or social planning - or referees (in the profession or within Government) who can validate the relevant
experience within the social impact assessment field
Does the consultant have a good reputation in
relation to the relevant work?
Referees within the profession or Government
who can confirm this
Does the consultant use best practice
methodologies in data gathering, community consultation and information analysis?
Such as those methods specified in this policy
and by the International Association for Impact Assessment
Does the consultant have experience in preparing similar technical reports for other agencies?
Can the consultant provide evidence of relevant experience?
Is the consultant a member, or eligible to be a member, of the Social Planning Chapter of the Planning Institute of Australia?
Does the consultant have a conflict of interest or a financial interest in the project?
.
