What are Special Purpose Use Properties?
Special purpose use properties in Australia are designated for unique or specific activities that do not typically align with conventional zoning categories such as residential, commercial, or industrial. These properties serve functions that may include religious institutions, educational facilities, hospitals, transport hubs, government buildings, and utilities. Special purpose properties are vital for public services, infrastructure, and community development.
Such properties are subject to zoning regulations, planning controls, and building standards tailored to their intended use. Their development and operation often involve additional oversight to ensure compatibility with local communities and environmental requirements.
Applicable Zoning for Special Purpose Use Properties
Special purpose use properties are primarily located in Special Use Zones (SUZ), though allowances may exist in other zones with conditional approvals. Zoning classifications vary by state and territory, reflecting the specific needs of the community and intended functions of the property.
1. Common Zoning Categories
Special Use Zones (SUZ)
Purpose: Accommodates specific developments or institutions that serve public or specialised private needs.
Typical Areas: Urban centres, suburban precincts, and regional hubs.
Examples: Hospitals, universities, or transport interchanges.
Public Use Zones (PUZ)
Purpose: Dedicated to government and public services such as schools, emergency services, and infrastructure.
Typical Areas: Areas close to residential zones or within city precincts.
Examples: Police stations, courthouses, and public schools.
Recreational or Institutional Zones
Purpose: Allows recreational or institutional facilities such as stadiums, parks, or religious centres.
Typical Areas: Peri-urban or urban fringe areas with space for large facilities.
Examples: Sporting grounds or churches in suburban Melbourne.
Transport Zones
Purpose: Designated for transport infrastructure such as airports, ports, and railways
Typical Areas: Adjacent to industrial or commercial zones for logistical synergy.
Examples: Airports in Brisbane or freight terminals in Sydney.
2. Zoning Framework by State and Territory
Each state and territory defines special purpose zones within its planning framework. Below is an overview:
New South Wales (NSW): Governed by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Special Use Zones (SP1 and SP2) allow uses such as health services, education, and transport infrastructure.
Example: Sydney Olympic Park under SP2 zoning.
Victoria (VIC): Under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, Special Use Zones (SUZ) permit developments like airports, schools, and cultural centres.
Example: Avalon Airport near Geelong.
Queensland (QLD): Planning Act 2016 includes Special Purpose Zones and Community Facility Zones for health, education, and utilities.
Example: Mater Hospital precinct in South Brisbane.
Western Australia (WA): Planning and Development Act 2005 designates Special Use Zones for mining infrastructure, defence bases, and other specific functions.
Example: Defence training areas in Karratha.
South Australia (SA): Planning and Development Infrastructure Act 2016 provides for Infrastructure and Community Facilities Zones for public institutions.
Example: Adelaide Showgrounds under Special Use zoning.
Northern Territory (NT): Planning Act 1999 permits Special Purpose Zones for mining, utilities, and Aboriginal land use.
Example: Darwin International Airport.
Tasmania (TAS): Tasmanian Planning Scheme allows special use properties under the Utilities and Community Purpose Zones.
Example: Hydro Tasmania power stations.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Territory Plan permits special use properties in CFZ (Community Facility Zones) and NUZ (Non-Urban Zones).
Example: Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Breakdown of Special Purpose Use Property Types
1. Educational Facilities
Description: Hospitals, clinics, and specialised care facilities.
Features: Classrooms, libraries, sports grounds, and student accommodations.
Designed for accessibility and safety.
Examples: University campuses in Sydney’s Macquarie Park.
2. Healthcare Facilities
Description: Hospitals, clinics, and specialised care facilities.
Features: Emergency rooms, wards, and research labs.
Adherence to strict hygiene and safety standards.
Examples: Royal Melbourne Hospital in Victoria.
3. Religious Institutions
Description: Places of worship such as churches, mosques, and temples.
Features: Assembly halls, community meeting spaces, and recreational areas.
Often involve heritage or cultural significance.
Examples: St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney.
4. Transport Infrastructure
Description: Airports, ports, and railways for passenger and freight transport.
Features: Terminals, runways, docking facilities, and storage areas.
Designed for heavy traffic and logistical efficiency.
Examples: Brisbane Airport.
5. Utilities and Infrastructure
Description: Power plants, water treatment facilities, and telecommunication towers.
Features: Specialised equipment and operational facilities.
Compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
Examples: Snowy Hydro Scheme in New South Wales.
6. Cultural and Recreational Facilities
Description: Properties serving cultural, social, or recreational purposes.
Features: Theatres, museums, stadiums, or exhibition centres.
Often located in urban precincts or close to tourist areas.
Examples: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
7. Defence and Emergency Services
Description: Properties for military or emergency service operations.
Features: Training facilities, bases, and command centres.
Designed for security and operational readiness.
Examples: Australian Defence Force bases in Darwin.
Key Considerations for Special Purpose Use Properties
1. Regulatory Compliance
Building Standards: Must adhere to the National Construction Code (NCC), fire safety, and accessibility standards.
Zoning Approvals: Conditional approvals may be required for specific developments.
Environmental Regulations: Addressing impacts like emissions, noise, and waste management.
2. Location and Accessibility
Proximity to community hubs or key transport links enhances usability.
Compatibility with adjacent land uses is essential for minimising disruptions.
3. Design and Functionality
Purpose-Specific Designs: Tailored layouts for healthcare, education, or cultural purposes.
Safety Features: Secure entry systems, emergency exits, and fire suppression systems.
Accessibility: Compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
4. Community and Economic Impact
Supporting local economies through job creation and service provision.
Minimising adverse impacts on surrounding communities through careful planning.
5. Sustainability and Innovation
Incorporation of renewable energy systems and efficient water usage.
Use of smart technologies for monitoring and optimisation.