Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Statement on the NSW Charter for Small Business
6 principles for how NSW Government agencies should work with small businesses.
The NSW Charter for Small Business includes 6 principles for how NSW Government agencies should work with small businesses. This statement details how the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) applies these principles in our work.
Clear and strong focal point to support small business to start, grow, and thrive
DPHI is committed to fair and impartial procurement processes which provide small businesses equal opportunities to submit bids or tenders to work with the Department.
Stronger engagement on new policy and regulation
DPHI regularly communicates and engages with the community and businesses on relevant policies and regulation changes.
The Department utilises the have your say platform to collect feedback and input on initiatives and policies, and communicates directly with impacted stakeholders on relevant projects. We provide responsive customer service to businesses with queries relating to the planning system or specific planning matters.
Listen and respond to red tape and other pain points
DPHI is undertaking extensive work to reduce red tape and duplication in planning processes in NSW. These initiatives collectively enhance the efficiency of the planning system, enabling small businesses to commence operations more swiftly.
As per the NSW Government’s Better Regulation Principles guide, all cabinet and executive council proposals DPHI submits for significant, new and amending regulatory proposals are accompanied by a Better Regulation Statement.
Boost Government procurement from small businesses
In October 2024, DPHI launched a new Aboriginal Participation Strategy (Procurement Strategy). The strategy includes indicators to increase the percentage of procurement contracts awarded to Aboriginal businesses, many of which are small businesses.
Introduce and report on metrics and identify opportunities for supporting small business policy, regulatory, and economic settings
DPHI is committed to working with the Small Business Bureau in developing and reporting on required metrics.
Deliver key actions and commitments to timeline
DPHI is committed to improving customer experience across the Department, which includes that of small businesses.
DPHI will deliver all relevant Small Business Charter actions and abide by the principles outlined in this statement.