23/04/2026
Discretion is sought and applied by planning practitioners and local and State decision makers across Western Australia constantly, and despite being firmly embedded in our planning system, is often a source of conflict and controversy.
In recognising the importance of balancing the desire for agility and innovation in the planning decisions with public expectations around consistency, certainty and transparency, the State Government’s Action Plan for Planning Reform included key action items around discretionary powers. Outcomes of that project included amendments to the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015 and the introduction of the Development Application Exercise of Discretion Guidelines (Guidelines). The project was recently recognised in the PIA WA Awards for Planning Excellence for its improvement to planning purposes.
This practical course is designed to clarify and improve confidence in those relying on, exercising and communicating discretionary powers. It will take participants through the Guidelines and revisit key principles around the exercise of discretion. Interactive workshop components will allow practitioners to consider scenarios, apply the foundations of the Guidelines and engage with colleagues around the benefits and burdens of this fundamental planning power.
Suitable for
Planning professionals and allied professions, including local government planners, councillors and all planning decision makers, would benefit most from this course.
Learning outcomes
Understand the new Guidelines and their application to decision making.
Understand the principles to consider when exercising discretionary powers, including a review of relevant case law and practical examples.
Improve confidence around the scope and limits of discretionary powers.
Improve the communication of outcomes and decisions involving the exercise of discretionary powers.
Improve connections and networks within the industry through shared experiences and wisdom
