This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for competent workplace performance in councils of all sizes. Knowledge of the legislation and regulations within which councils must operate is essential. The unique nature of councils, as a tier of government directed by elected members and reflecting the needs of local communities, must be appropriately reflected.

Prerequisite Unit/s

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Notify applicant of decision

1.1. Planning approval documentation is prepared as appropriate in line with council and statutory requirements.

1.2. Conditions of approval are clearly stated on documents to avoid misinterpretation.

1.3. All actions are recorded accurately according to standard council procedures and protocols.

1.4. Decision is communicated to applicant according to standard council procedures and protocols.

2. Provide administrative support for the final stages of the planning application process

2.1. Subsequent correspondence with applicant is received and recorded according to standard council procedures and protocols.

2.2. Accurate and timely advice is conveyed to applicant as required and according to standard council procedures and protocols.

2.3. Notification of the outcome of planning process is communicated to other affected parties according to standard council procedures and protocols.

3. Represent council at appeals as required

3.1. Full and detailed evidence is collected and collated to ensure position of the council is properly represented.

3.2. Specialist advice is obtained where required to ensure technical advice supports council or authority's position.

3.3. Submission is prepared that supports and protects council position and interests.

3.4. Submission is presented at appeals hearings.

3.5. Report on the outcomes is prepared for council according to standard council procedures and protocols.

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This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit

Required Skills

reading, analysing and interpreting a range of information relevant to job/role, which may include plans and legislation

communicating and liaising with professional practitioners and consultants

negotiation and conflict resolution with individuals and groups

performing calculations

preparing legal briefs

writing reports

assessing minor building applications

demonstrating clear verbal and written communication and consultation with the community and stakeholders

achieving effective working relationships that demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively with people from diverse backgrounds

problem solving, negotiation and conflict management

monitoring own work and adjusting to meet agreed standards and expectations

engaging in activities that promote own ongoing learning requirements, which may include maintaining current knowledge of legislation and common law

using technology relevant to the job/role, which may include the use of computers and other relevant office technology

record keeping.

Required Knowledge

relevant council procedures and protocols

relevant planning schemes

building Acts and regulations

relevant Australian standards and building codes

planning approval and appeals processes associated with minor applications

general understanding of domestic building construction techniques

principles of neighbourhood design

provision of evidence

court and tribunal processes.

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Overview of assessment requirements

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the elements to the required performance level detailed in the performance criteria. The unit's skill and knowledge requirements must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and council planning processes (including appeals) also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered

The demonstrated ability to:

notify applicants of the decision

prepare a submission that supports and protects council position and interests

represent council at an appeals hearing.

Context of assessment

Assessment of performance requirements in this unit should be undertaken within the context of the local government framework. Competency is demonstrated by performance of all stated criteria applicable to the workplace environment, within the scope of the range statement.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested:

observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies

written and oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completion of workplace documentation

third-party reports from experienced practitioners

completion of self-paced learning materials, including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor.

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance

Evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a range of actual or simulated management environments.

Resource implications

Access to building sites is essential as well as to a workplace or a simulated case study that provides relevant resources, including copies of:

essential documentation, such as the Building Code of Australia (Volumes I and II)

relevant Australian standards

local laws

planning schemes

examples of council policies

architect plans and drawings

technical reports

relevant certificates and authorities

real or mock resident submissions

reports from other services, agencies and specialists.

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Planning approval documentation may include:

permits

building rules consent

licences.

Statutory requirements may include:

state building legislation

national building codes

relevant Australian standards

local laws

relevant environmental legislation

planning schemes

council policies

principles of neighbourhood design.

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Unit Sector

Planning

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This unit contains employability skills.