Review of the Act

While the proclamation of the Land Administration Act 1997 (LAA) (external link) brought enormous improvements to the administration of State land within the State, it was also recognised that it would probably need adjustments once it was put into operation.

Section 279 of the LAA required the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure to commence a review of the operation and effectiveness of the Act within five years and six months of its being proclaimed (on 31 March 1998), and to table a report on the review in Parliament.

The review identified potential improvements that could increase efficiency, remove ambiguities and unintended consequences, confirm the principle of a single registration system, and provide certainty and security of tenure to pastoral leases. In addition, there were other matters that were seen as lesser priorities or in need of further investigation, which could be attended to in a later Bill.

Following a public comment period, a great deal of feedback was compiled and formed the basis of a final report tabled in Parliament.