Keneally: Sartor’s planning reforms to continue

Ms Keneally was elevated to the high profile ministries last week as the dust settled from the spectacular fall of Morris Iemma and a number of ministers, including her predecessor Frank Sartor.

Ms Kenealley, the former Disability and Ageing Minister, faces a number of challenges.

Dealing with local government and managing relationships with developers are likely to be the most pressing.

Last week Ms Keneally was attacked by the Greens as a recipient of more than $12,000 in direct donations from property developers.

Ms Keneally rejected the suggestions she was compromised, and said she would not be pushed or influenced.

“I will not be rushed through any decisions in the short term and I look forward to working with all those involved in the process,” she said.

The relationship with local government has been soured by the recent planning changes pushed through by sacked Mr Frank Sartor.

One of the most immediate priorities will be the implementation of the recent planning reforms, she said.

“I am keen to work collaboratively with all the relevant stakeholders, including local communities, in delivering the best planning outcomes for the state.”

Another new area of responsibility is the Redfern Waterloo portfolio.

Rebuilding trust and dialogue with community leaders, who regarded Mr Sartor as arrogant and high handed would be difficult, Ms Keneally said.

“I am keen to engage local communities in the planning process and work with them to achieve the best outcomes for the Redfern-Waterloo area,” she said.

A recent decision by the department of planning to end a stand off with Aboriginal Housing Company over development fees for the Pemulwuy project at The Block is a step in the right direction.

“My door is always open and I look forward to having the opportunity to meet with stakeholders in the near future,” she said.

Source: Central 17^th September 2008 http://sydney-central.whereilive.com.au/news/story/keneally-sartors-planning-reforms-to-continue/