M1997-05 Guidelines for the Preparation of Rural Communities Impact Statements

Further to Memorandum No. 1996-17 which outlined the new requirements for the preparation of rural communities impact statements, I have recently released a set of Guidelines for the Preparation of Rural Communities Impact Statements to assist departments and agencies.

The Guidelines have been prepared by the Office of Rural Communities within NSW Agriculture and should be used by all departments and agencies undertaking a Rural Communities Impact Statement to support proposals submitted to Cabinet which could impact on rural communities. The guidelines offer guidance on the assessment of social, economic and environmental impacts on rural communities and identify particular characteristics of rural communities which may be relevant to government decision making. This process is important in ensuring that the potential impact of any decision is fully understood before a decision is made.

While Rural Communities Impact Statements are only formally required for Cabinet Minutes, the guidelines have been written as a "best practice" document and can be used as an integral part of internal decision making. State-owned Corporations are not covered by the requirements to prepare Rural Communities Impact Statements. They are, however, encouraged to adopt the procedures within their decision making processes.

Ministers should ensure that all agencies under their administration are aware of the guidelines and the requirements for rural communities impact statements.

Bob Carr

Premier