VCAT Presentations
This is an extension to the work of the Planning Committee. Once the CRA lodges an objection to any development, the process is in train which may result in CRA needing to appear at VCAT to speak about the objection in person. Members volunteer to represent CRA in these hearings. The content of the objections is prepared by the Planning Committee who brief CRA representatives for their VCAT appearances.
Return of vcat major cases List
As of 3 January 2012 VCAT has reinstated its Major Caes List which aims to provide speedy hearing for planning disputes about high-cost developments read more here and on Nick Groggon's Blog and also the VCAT website
vcat president's review
The CRA response to the 'Transforming VCAT' discussion paper
Report to CRA Committee on 14 July 2009 meeting with Justice Bell
Click here to read this Report
To read the CRA's original submission to the review as outlined below Click here
The following VCAT processes have generated concern for the CRA - They are elaborated on in the submission
1 Accessibility and affordability
2 Members’ Propensity to be “planners” rather than “judges”
3 The sidelining of local policies developed by Councils
4 Dubious independence of expert witnesses
5 Lack of consistency in Members’ decisions
6 Right of Reply for objectors and councils
7 VCAT’s tendency to act contrary to its own practice notes
8 Assistance offered to unrepresented participants
9. Alternative Dispute Resolution