Fiji’s Cabinet has made a pivotal decision to modernize the nation’s development processes by approving an initial phase of amendments to the Town Planning Act of 1946, alongside its regulations. This reform aims to expedite, simplify, and enhance transparency within the development pipeline, addressing long-standing challenges that have impeded progress across multiple sectors.
The amendments focus on key areas such as the constraints on development within designated planning zones, the introduction of Certificates of Compliance and Occupancy for building applications, and establishing a definite schedule for development application fees. By eliminating the use of manual development forms, the approval process is anticipated to be more efficient. Major development projects will now require the endorsement of the Director of Town and Country Planning. Additionally, to bolster document security and integrity, the implementation of electronic signatures is planned.
Consequential changes to the Public Health Act of 1935 will accompany these amendments, ensuring coherence across related legislations. The overarching objective of these reforms is to improve compliance and streamline the planning process, making it more efficient for developers and communities alike, which is crucial for stimulating economic growth.
Past reports have underscored the urgent need for these reforms, citing the complexities and inefficiencies within the current building permit processes that often result in delays, negatively impacting housing, tourism, and commercial development. The government’s ongoing BusinessNow Fiji initiative is working toward digitizing these processes to enhance coordination among various agencies. This program aims to minimize bureaucratic hurdles by enabling applicants to submit a single, consolidated application routed directly to the appropriate authorities, significantly reducing approval times.
These milestones reflect an optimistic and progressive approach adopted by the Fijian government, demonstrating a commitment to fostering an environment conducive to investment and development. By leveraging digital solutions and optimizing administrative procedures, Fiji is enhancing its operational efficiencies and increasing its appeal as a destination for both domestic and international investors. Such efforts are integral to building a more resilient economy that benefits all Fijians through timely development and compliance.