Fiji’s Cabinet has taken a significant step toward modernizing the country’s development processes by approving the first phase of amendments to the Town Planning Act 1946 and its accompanying regulations. This initiative aims to expedite, simplify, and enhance transparency in the development pipeline, responding to long-standing issues that have hindered progress in various sectors.
The reforms target critical areas such as the limitations on development in designated planning areas, the introduction of Certificates of Compliance and Occupancy for building applications, and the establishment of a clear schedule of development application fees. Eliminating manual development forms is expected to streamline the approval process, while major projects will now require the endorsement of the Director of Town and Country Planning. Furthermore, to improve document security and integrity, electronic signatures will be adopted as part of these changes.
These amendments will also include consequential revisions to the Public Health Act 1935, ensuring that the changes maintain consistency across related legislation. The overall goal of these reforms is to enhance compliance and make the planning process more efficient for both developers and communities, which is essential for fostering economic growth.
Previous reports highlight the need for such reforms, noting that the existing processes for obtaining building permits have been complex and inefficient, often leading to delays that stifle housing, tourism, and commercial development. The government’s BusinessNow Fiji program is underway, focusing on digitizing these processes to improve coordination among various agencies. This initiative aims to reduce bureaucratic red tape by allowing applicants to submit a single consolidated application that can be automatically routed to the relevant authorities, thereby shortening approval times significantly.
These milestones reflect a hopeful and forward-thinking approach by the Fijian government, signaling its commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment and development. By embracing digital solutions and streamlining administrative procedures, Fiji is not only improving its operational efficiencies but also striving to enhance its attractiveness as a destination for both domestic and international investment. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to building a more resilient economy, benefiting all Fijians by facilitating timely development and compliance.