The policy requires strategic plans to guide local planning, development setbacks for protection against coastal processes such as erosion and storms, and the provision of coastal foreshore reserves.

Guidance is provided on determining setbacks. The preparation of coastal planning strategies or coastal foreshore management plans in partnership with the broader community is also strongly advocated.

The policy provides high order guidance for decision-making on coastal planning matters and applies statewide. Implementation will be through local government town planning schemes, and regional and local strategies.

The objectives of this policy are to:

• protect, conserve and enhance coastal values, particularly in areas of landscape, nature conservation, indigenous and cultural significance;  
• provide for public foreshore areas and access to these on the coast;
• ensure the identification of appropriate areas for the sustainable use of the coast for housing, tourism, recreation, ocean access, maritime industry, commercial and other activities; and
• ensure that the location of coastal facilities and development takes into account coastal processes including erosion, accretion, storm surge, tides, wave conditions, sea level change and biophysical criteria.

Amendments to this policy