On 2 March 2010, the Transport Integration Act 2010 (Vic) ("Act") received Royal Assent and will come into effect on upon proclamation and no later than 1 July 2011.

The purpose of the Act is to provide for a more integrated and sustainable transport system in Victoria. The Act is primarily a policy framework for transport legislation.

The Government set about the reform after a comprehensive review, which revealed that, there was no overarching framework for the public transport system and the government's broader policies were not reflected in the legislation.

Who will the Act affect?

The Act will impact all existing transport bodies and other bodies with transport responsibilities, including:

  1. Planning authorities;
  2. Growth Areas Authority;
  3. VicUrban;
  4. VCAT;
  5. Local Government Victoria;
  6. Local Government Authorities;
  7. Parks Victoria.

What are the practical implications of the Act?

The Minister of Public Transport indicated in the second-reading-speech for the bill that one of the primary objectives of the Act is to establish transport bodies under the one piece of legislation, with a common goal to work together to foster greater integration and sustainability.

The Act will largely replace the existing Transport Act 1983 (Vic) ("Transport Act"). The Government's review determined that the current legislative framework was outdated and fragmented. The Transport Act was mainly in relation to land transport. The new framework will integrate the previously discrete ports and marine sectors. In addition, key transport related land use legislation such as the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic) and the Local Government Act 1989 (Vic) will be connected to the Act.

The transport bodies and non-transport bodies (listed above) will be required to understand the objectives and decision-making principles of the Act. Planning in relation to transport will now be undertaken in line with the policy framework of the Act.

Please contact us if you would like to find out more about the Act and how it might impact your organisation.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.