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Kangaroo Island Plan A volume of the South Australian Planning Strategy January 2011
Kangaroo Island Plan
A volume of the South Australian Planning Strategy
This document is the Kangaroo Island Plan.
The document has been prepared by the South Australian
Government, through the Department of Planning and Local
Government, as a volume of the South Australian Planning
Strategy pursuant to section 22 of the Development Act 1993
and is subject to change.
For further information
Please visit www.dplg.sa.gov.au or telephone the Department
of Planning and Local Government on 08 8303 0600.
Disclaimer
While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure that this document
is correct at the time of publication, the Minister for Urban Development
and Planning, the State of South Australia, its agencies, instrumentalities,
employees and contractors disclaim any and all liability to any person in
respect to anything or the consequence of anything done or omitted to be
done in reliance upon the whole or any part of this document.
© Government of South Australia. Published 2011. All rights reserved.
ISBN 978-0-7590-0132-9
FIS 23122
iii
Minister for Urban
Development and
Pl anning
A message from Paul Holloway
Kangaroo Island’s international In line with the SASP objective Realising the objectives of
reputation far exceeds its of maintaining the regions’ share the Plan during the next
relatively small size—just 4400 of the state’s population, the three decades will require a
square kilometres—and modest Kangaroo Island Plan adopts a continuing community-wide
population. target that will help sustain steady approach and commitment to
Renowned for its pristine economic growth through to 2036. maximising the island’s liveability,
environment, abundant wildlife To ensure the greatest benefit for competitiveness, sustainability
and unique food products, current and future residents, the and resilience in the face of a
the island attracts thousands Plan indicates where new housing, carbon-constrained future.
of visitors from Australia and industry and commercial activity
overseas each year. should be best located (and not
As we begin 2011, Kangaroo located), outlines the different
Island is ready for economic and roles and functions of towns
population growth. and settlements, and addresses
issues such as the interface
Much of this growth is already between industrial, commercial
occurring in the primary and residential areas. Paul Holloway
production sector, with great
The Plan also identifies the Minister for Urban Development
potential to further expand high-
potential effects of growth and and Planning
value crops and niche agricultural
products and to build on the climate change on the island’s
island’s ‘clean, green’ attributes. environmental assets, including
unique ecosystems and
Tourism, too, is growing with new biodiversity, and sets out land-use
investment in accommodation, principles and policies to guide
services and infrastructure. The development that will support the
challenge is to balance this protection and management of
growth with protection of the those critical assets.
natural and cultural features that
make Kangaroo Island so special. The Kangaroo Island Plan is
the result of close collaboration
Now, for the first time in its history, among representatives from state
Kangaroo Island has a dedicated government, the Kangaroo Island
volume of the South Australian council, regional development and
Planning Strategy to guide land natural resources management
use and development. The bodies, communities and
Kangaroo Island Plan, together industries.
with seven other regional volumes
in the Strategy, provides a dynamic
spatial expression of South
Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP).
v
The regional volumes of the South Australian Planning Strategy provide a link between broad, statewide planning aims and local, council-specific planning needs. They give direction on land use and development, outline where people are likely to live so that agencies can plan for the provision of services and infrastructure, and set out policies to manage changes in population and climate. Local councils, the state government and regional development and natural resources management bodies are working with communities and industry to develop effective strategies that will lead to a sustainable future. They recognise that population growth and economic prosperity must be balanced with preservation of the environment and retention of the heritage, history and character of regional communities to attract and retain skilled workers and for the benefit of future generations.
Table of Contents
Chapter A OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The role of the South Australian Planning Strategy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The objectives of the regional volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Alignment with state government policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
How the regional volumes will work at regional and local government levels . . . . . 5
Planning for change in regional South Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Chapter B THE CONTEXT FOR THE PLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Kangaroo Island at a glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Key issues for Kangaroo Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Chapter C THE VISION FOR THE KANGAROO ISLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
An integrated approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chapter D PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Environment and culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Economic development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Population and settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Chapter E INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICE PROVISION . . . . . . . . . . 51
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Appendix 1 How the Plan was developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Appendix 2 Information about Kangaroo Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Appendix 3 Contribution of the Plan to South Australia’s Strategic Plan targets . . . 68
Appendix 4 Related reports, strategies and plans . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
List of maps
A1 Planning regions covered in the South Australian Planning Strategy . . . . . . 3
C1 An integrated vision for the Kangaroo Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
D1 Environment and culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
D2 Economic development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
D3 Population and settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
vii
overview
Chapter A
1
overview
Chapter A
Background The role of the South of regional communities. They also
Chapter A OVERVIEW
outline where people are likely to
The Kangaroo Island Plan (the Australian Planning live and the projected make-up
Plan) guides future land use and Strategy of the population so that state
development on Kangaroo Island. and local government agencies
The Kangaroo Island Plan is one can plan for the provision of
It has been prepared by the
of seven regional volumes that, services and infrastructure, such
State Government, through the
together with The 30-Year Plan as transport, health, schools, and
Department of Planning and
for Greater Adelaide, make up aged care and community facilities.
Local Government (DPLG), in
the South Australian Planning
collaboration with the Kangaroo At a local level, the regional
Strategy. The regions covered
Island Development Board1, volumes provide guidance
in the regional volumes of the
the Kangaroo Island Natural and resources for councils as
Planning Strategy are: Kangaroo
Resources Management Board they undertake their Strategic
Island, Eyre and Western, Far
and the Kangaroo Island Council. Management Plans and review
North, Limestone Coast, Murray
For more information about how and amend their Development
and Mallee, Yorke and Mid North2
the Plan was developed, see Plans. Development Plans contain
(see Map A1).
Appendix 1. the zones, maps and explicit
Kangaroo Island is part of the rules that specify what can and
Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island cannot be done with land in
SA Government Administrative a council area. Councils must
Region, but for planning purposes ensure that their Development
it is covered in a separate regional Plans are consistent with the
volume of the Strategy. The land-use policies and directions
Fleurieu Peninsula is covered of the relevant regional volume.
in The 30-Year Plan for Greater The regional volumes also
Adelaide. guide Development Plans and
In the regional volumes the State Development Plan Amendments
Government gives direction in unincorporated (out of council)
on land use and development areas, as undertaken by the
for the period 2010–2036. The Minister for Urban Development
regional volumes set out how the and Planning.
government proposes to balance The Structure Plans for the state’s
population and economic growth major regional cities, including
with the need to preserve the Mount Gambier, Port Augusta,
environment and protect the Port Lincoln, Port Pirie and
heritage, history and character Whyalla, flow from the regional
volumes.
1 The Kangaroo Island Development Board 2 The Yorke and Mid North regions are currently
became part of Regional Development covered in the South Australian Planning Strategy
Australia Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and as separate volumes. They will eventually be
Kangaroo Island in 2009–10. combined into one volume.
2Planning regions covered in the South Australian Planning Strategy Map A1
3The South Australian Planning The objectives of the Alignment with state
Chapter A OVERVIEW
Strategy is a requirement of
section 22 of the Development regional volumes government policies
Act 1993. The Minister for Urban
To maximise the state’s The regional volumes of the South
Development and Planning is
opportunities and respond to its Australian Planning Strategy
responsible for the strategy’s
challenges, the regional volumes provide a link between broad,
preparation on behalf of the State
of the South Australian Planning statewide planning aims and
Government and for reporting to
Strategy have three interlocking local, council-specific planning
the South Australian Parliament
objectives. They are to: needs, and they work in tandem
annually on its implementation.
maintain and improve liveability with key state policies, leading to
Each volume of the strategy
a consistent approach to land use
must be reviewed at least every increase competitiveness and development across the state.
five years.
drive sustainability and Firstly, the regional volumes
resilience to climate change. support the achievement of a
range of social, economic and
Figure A1 shows how these three environmental targets in South
objectives interrelate. Australia’s Strategic Plan. Second,
Figure A1 – Objectives of the regional volumes of the South Australian Planning Strategy
Liveability Competitiveness
A country lifestyle that is relaxed and has a strong Attracts jobs and investment
sense of community Retains people in the region
Has adequate and equitable access to services Attracts and welcomes people from different
A vibrant arts, cultural and sporting life backgrounds and places
Housing and cost of living is affordable Scenic landscapes with an intrinsic sense of place
Attractive to a diverse range of businesses and industries
Best elements of the past and present are evident
in town design and form Maximises competitive advantage in renewable
and clean energy
Sustainability and
climate change resilience
Pattern of settlements is deliberately re-engineered towards
greater sustainability and climate change resilience
Adaptation means the region responds to the risk of climate
change and massively improves water and energy efficiency
Preserves and restores the natural environment
4they feed into the Strategic How the regional Planning for change
Infrastructure Plan for South
Australia (2005) by identifying the volumes will work in regional South
infrastructure priorities needed to at regional and local Australia
support economic and population
growth. Third, they tie in with the government levels The regional volumes of the South
Housing Plan for South Australia Australian Planning Strategy set
While the regional volumes will
(2005), Water for Good—A out land-use policies to manage
primarily operate at a regional
Plan to Ensure our Water Future the changes that are forecast
level, local government will play a
to 2050 (2009), the Economic to occur across the regions. Of
pivotal role in their implementation,
Statement (2009), the State particular concern are changes in
in collaboration with DPLG, other
Natural Resources Management population and climate, which are
state government agencies and
Plan (2006), the regional natural having, and will continue to have,
stakeholders such as regional
resources management plans significant impact on the demand
development and natural
(2009) and South Australia’s for services and infrastructure, the
resources management boards.
Waste Strategy (2005). natural environment, the character
The collaborative process will
of communities and the economic
feature regional forums, which
prosperity of the regions.
Relationship to South will bring councils and relevant
Australia’s Strategic Plan bodies together each year to
agree on long-term land-use Regional population change
Figure A2 shows the relationship and infrastructure priorities,
of the regional volumes with South The State Government believes
appropriate targets, and the need that sustainable population growth
Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) to focus their respective resources
and its targets, as well as the links is essential to maintain healthy
on implementing the priorities. communities and a labour force
to several state policy initiatives.
that can support our economy.
See Appendix 3 for further While much of the state’s
information about how the Kangaroo population growth is expected to
Island Plan contributes to specific occur in Greater Adelaide, regional
SASP targets. areas are also targeted to grow.
The make-up of the state’s
population is also changing
dramatically—it is ageing at
a faster rate than the other
Australian states and this will
bring significant challenges for
planning, particularly in terms of
the type and location of housing
and its proximity to services.
5Figure A2 – The Kangaroo Island Plan’s relationship with key state government policies
Chapter A OVERVIEW
South Australia’s Strategic Plan
Growing Improving Attaining Fostering Building Expanding
prosperity wellbeing sustainability creativity and communities opportunity
innovation
S P A T I A L S T R A T E G Y
SASP OBJECTIVES SASP OBJECTIVES
Kangaroo Island Plan
STATE POLICY INITIATIVES STATE POLICY INITIATIVES
Water for Good – State Natural Strategic
Greenhouse Skills Strategy
A Plan to Ensure Resource Infrastructure
Strategy for
our Water Future Management Plan for
South Australia
to 2050 Plan South Australia
Information, Population Economic Planning
Communication Policy Statement Reform
and Technology
6South Australia’s Strategic Plan Numbers have declined in the However, increasing economic
(SASP) calls for regional South more sparsely populated areas, investment in the regions and the
Australia to maintain an 18 per particularly those in the Far North, expansion and diversification of
cent share of the state’s total and in settlements with fewer than primary industries, aquaculture,
population (Target 5.9). Based on 1000 people (with the exception mining and the services that
the all-of-state population target of coastal communities). Changes support tourism and older
developed for The 30-Year Plan to population distribution are populations are expected to
for Greater Adelaide, this would being driven by the restructuring attract and maintain more
equate to about 99,000 additional of farming enterprises into larger young people and people from
people taking up residence in holdings, resulting in larger and overseas. This will contribute to
regional areas, resulting in a fewer agricultural properties; the the achievement of the SASP
regional population of 396,000 interstate and intrastate migration population growth target.
people by 2036 (that is, an of people seeking a regional To achieve the SASP workforce
increase of 1.03 per cent per year). lifestyle; and changing industry targets, the South Australian
Assuming the average annual demands. Government, through the
growth rate required to achieve Generally, towns with more Department of Further Education,
Target T5.9 applies to Kangaroo than 1000 people have grown; Employment, Science and
Island, the population would several of these towns have had Technology, is working with
increase by 1510, or 56 people per the fastest rates of population industry to develop workforce
year, by 2036. This would result in growth in the state. Larger centres action plans in the mining,
a target population of 6040. such as Port Lincoln, Murray defence, construction, health,
While overall population numbers Bridge and Mount Gambier have and advanced manufacturing
in regional areas of the state have continued to expand, while in Port sectors. As well, industry skills
remained relatively static during Pirie, Port Augusta and Whyalla boards are developing workforce
the past decade, there have been the population has stabilised and development plans to address the
significant changes in where shown some improvement after a demand for labour and skills in
people are choosing to live. sustained period of decline. industries that have lost workers
The demographic profile of the to mining.
regions also has been changing, Any potential impacts on natural
with an ageing population and resources, the environment,
generally declining numbers of biodiversity, and the character of
young people. communities as a result of these
changing population patterns and
related development will need to
be carefully managed.
7Climate change as outlined in Water for Good—A Managing change
Chapter A OVERVIEW
Plan to Ensure our Water Future
The potential effects of climate South Australia’s regions face
to 2050, and investigating how
change on the regions range from the challenge of managing the
regional communities can diversify
threats to water supply, increased impacts of climate change and
their water supply sources.
risk of bushfire and greater population growth to protect
fragmentation of native habitats In addition, state and local viable primary production
to increased pressure on governments continue to industries and the natural
health care services from more investigate ways to organise resources upon which they
vulnerable people. land use such that it supports depend. This challenge has been
renewable and clean energy compounded by reduced rainfall
The State Government believes
technologies. These opportunities during several drought years.
it is critical to intervene now to
will give South Australia a During this time rural communities
help the regions prepare for
competitive advantage in a have again shown their resilience
and adapt to long-term climate
carbon-constrained economy. and capacity to manage in both
change. Securing water and
Investment in infrastructure good and bad years.
energy supplies is fundamental
will be critical to realise such
to economic, social and Local councils, regional and
opportunities.
environmental wellbeing in the economic development boards,
face of such change. These initiatives will extend natural resources management
the life and reliability of our boards and the state government
In recent years, state and local
water and energy supplies and have been working with the
governments and regional
allow the population and the community, local groups and
communities have improved water
economy to grow without placing industry to develop effective
security through augmentation
unsustainable demands on our strategies for specific sectors (for
of supply, the introduction of
natural resources. example, primary industries and
permanent water conservation,
and measures such as wastewater Our understanding of climate tourism) and specific parts of the
re-use and stormwater harvesting. change and its ramifications is regions (for example, individual
Increased housing density, evolving rapidly. It is critical that towns and council areas) that will
improved water efficiency of policies and decisions are based lead to a sustainable future for
buildings and the incorporation on the best current information, the regions.
of water-sensitive urban design and are able to be adjusted in They recognise that population
(WSUD) principles in the the future if required. and economic growth must
development process will lead to be balanced with protection
more efficient water consumption of the environment, including
in regional towns. State and local biodiversity, and retention of
governments are developing, the regions’ unique qualities for
regional demand and supply the benefit of future generations
plans, to be in place by 2014 and to attract and retain skilled
workers.
8THE CONTEXT
FOR THE PL AN
Chapter B
9THE CONTEXT
FOR THE PLAN
Chapter B
Kangaroo Island The island’s economy is During 1996–2008 the island had
Chapter B THE CONTEX T FOR THE PL AN
dominated by a diverse range a slightly higher annual growth
at a glance of primary production activities rate than regional South Australia
(including cropping, grazing, overall—about 0.59 per cent a
Kangaroo Island covers an area
horticulture, forestry, fishing and year compared to 0.17 per cent—
of 4400 square kilometres and
aquaculture) and value-added which resulted in an estimated
has a circumference of about
products such as wine, cheese, resident population (ERP) of 4536
480 kilometres. It is 155 kilometres
marron, olive oil, free-range by 2008. At this rate the island
long and up to 55 kilometres wide
chickens and Ligurian honey. The would have a population of 5348
and, at its highest point, is about
island’s clean, green reputation by 2036; however, at 1.03 per cent
300 metres above sea level.
underpins these industries. a year (the rate required to meet
Of the 4500 residents on the the SASP regional population
Kangaroo Island is also a popular
island, almost 40 per cent live target), the population would
destination for local, national
in Kingscote. The remainder reach 6043 by 2036.
and international visitors. Only
predominantly live in or around the
15 kilometres from the South See Appendix 2 for detailed
towns of Parndana, Penneshaw
Australian mainland, the island information about Kangaroo
and American River, and the
offers opportunities to see wildlife Island, including its population
settlements of Baudin Beach,
(including rare species) in natural distribution, economy and
Brownlow, Cygnet River, Emu Bay,
habitats, spectacular coastlines infrastructure.
Nepean Bay, Island Beach and
and bush landscapes, and to
Vivonne Bay.
enjoy a rural experience shaped
by the island’s isolation, small
population and heritage.
10Key issues for Kangaroo Environment and culture Economic development
Island Protecting and preserving Supporting the development
the island’s environmental and diversification of primary
The following issues were identified assets, including National and industries, as well as their
as critical to the island’s future Conservation Parks, native sustainable adaptation to
by local government, industry vegetation, coastal and marine climate change
groups and communities during environments, and water
Encouraging value adding in
consultations in 2008–09. The resources
the development of high-end
issues, which are key drivers for
Planning for the impacts of tourist accommodation
the Kangaroo Island Plan, are
climate change on agricultural
grouped under four themes: Encouraging new horticultural
production and development
environment and culture development and support the
in low-lying coastal areas
development of value-chain
economic development vulnerable to rising sea levels
activities
and storm surges
population and settlements Attracting and retaining a highly
Minimising risks to property and
infrastructure and services skilled and flexible workforce
people, especially in low-lying
provision. to ensure a stronger economic
coastal areas subject to erosion
base
and flooding
Attracting industry, particularly
Encouraging the sustainable
where there is infrastructure
use of groundwater resources
capacity for growth (for example,
by developing strategies to re-
electricity, roads and shipping).
use stormwater and wastewater
Appropriately locating
development such that it does
not adversely impact on scenic
landscapes
Supporting appropriate water-
use planning to ensure there
are equitable water supplies for
environmental, industrial and
urban needs.
11Population and settlements Infrastructure and service Exploring opportunities to
Chapter B THE CONTEX T FOR THE PL AN
Valuing the strong sense of provision develop biofuels from locally
sourced primary produce
community spirit and close Considering the implications
affinity with the island of seasonal population Retaining and making the best
fluctuations and tourism for use of existing and planned
Discouraging ad hoc residential
services and infrastructure infrastructure assets, including
development outside towns and
provision freight transport, hospital and
maintain the towns’ character
aged care facilities, and coastal
and heritage Encouraging investment recreational facilities
Addressing the needs of in infrastructure to support
economic and population Ensuring development
an ageing population by
growth supports centres with existing
developing a range of housing
infrastructure and services,
alternatives around existing Improving public transport such as Kingscote, Penneshaw,
health and community services availability and access to health American River and Parndana,
in the main towns, especially services, which are critical to better service the wider rural
Kingscote issues, particularly for the population
Ensuring an adequate supply of ageing population
Extending and upgrade access
residential land is available for Increasing the capacity of water to broadband and mobile
future development, including infrastructure and community phone services across the
maximising the use of surplus wastewater management island to support industry and
farm houses resulting from farm systems (CWMS) to support expand distance education
amalgamations population and tourist growth opportunities
Managing coastal town growth and industry expansion
Supporting development and
to avoid inefficient linear Expanding the local generation maintenance of social and
development of electricity through wind, community facilities, including
Encouraging the development solar and wave farms to enable sporting, education, health and
of affordable housing in locations greater capacity for economic other facilities to service the
that support employment activity local population.
industries, particularly in the
western part of the island.
12THE VISION FOR
kangaroo island
Chapter C
13THE VISION FOR
kangaroo isl and
Chapter C
An integrated approach The Plan allows for communities The aims of the vision are to:
Chapter C THE vision for kangaroo isl and
to develop and grow, and strengthen the role of the main
The Kangaroo Island Plan is a encourages initiatives that help towns
coordinated and integrated vision retain the special qualities of
for land use and development Kangaroo Island while fostering ensure sustainable coastal
across the island. It responds to vibrant and distinctive towns that development
the opportunities and challenges support a range of lifestyles. It protect natural and industry
facing the island and identifies the supports activities that benefit assets
planning priorities, principles and the local and regional economy,
policies necessary to achieve the provide local employment and expand the role of active,
vision (refer to map C1). attract people to the island. nature-based tourism,
It recognises the island’s particularly in coastal locations
variations in geographical maintain and strengthen
features, economic strengths and primary production in
community aspirations, and seeks appropriate areas
to make the most of the different
opportunities each presents. It ensure an appropriate and well-
seeks to balance the needs of located supply of residential,
people today with those of future commercial and industrial land
generations. to support growth
retain the built and natural
heritage in and around towns
and settlements.
14An integrated vision for Kangaroo Island Map C1
1516
principles and
policies
Chapter D
17principles and
policies
Chapter D
This chapter outlines the Under each theme the Plan While the policies and priorities
Chapter D Principles and policies
principles and policies that are identifies: of the Kangaroo Island Plan may
required to realise the vision for planning-related priorities3 change over time, the principles
Kangaroo Island. These are set for the Kangaroo Island will be a constant driving force
out under three themes: Council (and the Minister for future generations to ensure
environment and culture in out-of-council areas) to the island is competitive, liveable,
consider when developing the sustainable and resilient to climate
economic development change.
Strategic Management Plan
population and settlements. and updating the Kangaroo The contributions of these
Island Development Plan (the principles to South Australia’s
Development Plan) Strategic Plan targets are
described in Appendix 3.
principles to guide land-use
planning and development
planning-related policies that
give ongoing direction to the
council (and which must be
reflected in the Development
Plan).
3 These priorities were identified during
consultation on the draft Kangaroo Island
Plan during March to May 2009.
18The principles are:
1 Recognise, protect and 6 Retain and strengthen the 11 Strategically plan and manage
restore Kangaroo Island’s economic potential of the the growth of towns
environmental assets island’s primary production
12 Design towns to provide
land
2 Protect people, property safe, healthy, accessible and
and the environment from 7 Strengthen local commercial appealing environments
exposure to hazards fishing and aquaculture
13 Provide land for a supply
industries
3 Identify and protect places of diverse, affordable and
of heritage and cultural 8 Reinforce the island as a sustainable housing to meet
significance, and desired preferred tourism destination the needs of current and
town character future residents and visitors.
9 Provide and protect serviced
4 Create the conditions for the and well-sited industrial land
island to adapt and become to meet projected demand
resilient to the impacts of
10 Ensure commercial
climate change
development is well sited and
5 Protect and build on the designed to support the role
island’s strategic infrastructure and function of towns
19environment and culture
Overview for South Australia 2007–2017; Incorporate information from
Chapter D Principles and policies
Tackling Climate Change: South environmental studies (for
Kangaroo Island’s environmental
Australia’s Greenhouse Strategy example, on biodiversity, the
and cultural assets—underpinned
2007–2020; the Wetlands Strategy effects of climate change and
by a range of existing plans,
for South Australia (2003); Water dry-land salinity) to inform the
strategies and agreements—play
for Good—A Plan to Ensure review and updating of the
essential roles in guiding its
our Water Future to 2050; the Development Plan, including
future development. Settlements
Marine Planning Framework for identifying areas of high
and industry are inextricably
South Australia; and the Marine biodiversity value
dependent on climate and water
Protected Areas program. Further understanding of the
resources, as well as land- and
water-dependent ecosystems. The Kangaroo Island Plan seeks impacts of climate change on
As well, heritage sites and to ensure that future land-use natural resources and habitats
structures of significance provide directions complement these on the island to inform strategic
an essential sense of identity and documents. It therefore contains planning for development and
connection with place. land-use principles and policies land use
to guide development in a manner Maintain local heritage registers
The design, siting and
that: and identify heritage listed sites
management of development
must prevent adverse impacts on protects biodiversity and areas in the Development Plan
these critical assets and minimise of environmental sensitivity, Prevent an over-commitment
the exposure of people and including coastal areas of water resources by
property to danger from natural supports the management of undertaking investigations to
hazards, such as floods and the island’s natural resources determine sustainable limits
bushfires. of water use (particularly on
prepares the island for the expanding industries such as
Sustainable levels of demand
impacts of climate change commercial forestry), and use
for water and energy are also
essential, particularly considering ensures that development this information to inform the
the effects of climate change. appropriately responds to Development Plan
Several organisations have hazards and risks Protect native ecosystems
policies to guide the management helps preserve the island’s and current industries from
of the environment, particularly heritage (both Aboriginal and incursions of pests and
the Kangaroo Island Natural non-Aboriginal). diseases not already present
Resources Management Plan on the island
(2009); Environment Protection
Authority (EPA) policies, codes of Priorities for councils Undertake hydrological
investigations and management
practice and guidelines; the Living Establish and/or review coastal actions for Kangaroo Island
Coast Strategy for South Australia zones in the Development Plan catchments to assess the
(2004); Coast Protection Board in conjunction with planning the environmental impacts of
Policy Document (2004); No growth of coastal towns and current and future farm dams
Species Loss: A Nature Strategy settlements and forestry development.
20Environment and culture Map D1
21Principle 1 population growth targets4 will 1.4 Ensure development retains
Chapter D Principles and policies
increase competition for available natural watercourses and
Recognise, protect and water. More efficient water drainage patterns through
restore Kangaroo Island’s use, recycling of stormwater the creation of appropriate
and wastewater and other buffers and the application
environmental assets such measures are required in of WSUD principles.
planning. The State Government is
Water working with regional communities
to develop regional water supply
Coastal, estuarine and
The island has many water-
and demand plans, as outlined marine environments
dependent ecosystems, ranging
from watercourses to wetlands in Water for Good, and to Kangaroo Island’s appeal relies
and tidal estuaries on the incorporate water-sensitive urban largely on its natural heritage, of
coastline. design (WSUD) principles in the which its coastal landscapes are
development process (see Box 1). identified as the most important
In most of Kangaroo Island’s
landscape element. The island’s
rivers, surface water is plentiful
Policies coastal areas vary significantly,
in winter but confined to semi-
1.1 Protect the quality and reflecting differences in geology
permanent creeks and waterholes
function of water ecosystems and wind and wave patterns.
in summer until flushed out by
autumn and winter rains. by preventing adverse These assets are highly valued by
impacts of land use and local residents and the more than
Reduced rainfall in recent seasons,
development (such as 152,000 people who visit each
however, has increased the
overuse of resources, year. The land and water also
demand from landowners to install
erosion, impeded surface have significance for Aboriginal
new dams or enlarge existing
and subsurface water flows, people, who have historical
dams, thereby placing pressure
increases in acid sulfate associations with the island.
on existing water supplies.
soils, land degradation and Aboriginal sites and objects
Dry-land salinity is also a major clearing, and pollution). located near the coast, in dunes
issue, particularly as most and in the waters, are protected
1.2 Encourage water harvesting
catchments have been cleared by legislation.
initiatives where ecologically
of vegetation to some extent.
appropriate. Increased visitor numbers
Currently about 10,000 hectares
are likely to place pressure
of land are affected by salinity. 1.3 Make the most efficient use
on the island’s infrastructure
The combination of diminished of water in the built form
and increase demand for
rainfall predicted as a result at both house and town
accommodation and recreational
of climate change (and its level, drawing on WSUD
facilities in coastal areas. The
associated impact on aquifer techniques.
conservation of coastal areas
recharge rates) and SASP will be critical to ensure fragile
coastal environments, their rich
4 Target 5.9 of South Australia’s Strategic Plan biodiversity, and highly valued
(SASP) calls for regional South Australia to
maintain an 18 per cent share of the state’s scenic qualities are maintained
total population.
22and preserved. Development and Box 1—Water-sensitive urban design (WSUD)
public access in sensitive areas
should be avoided or designed
to minimise their environmental WSUD techniques help to improve water quality and quantity,
impact. and reduce flood risk in urban areas, while enhancing biodiversity.
The coast has great economic They can be incorporated into development projects across a
value, both from natural resources range of types and scales, including homes, streets, parking
industries and through activities areas, subdivisions and multi-units, commercial and industrial
that prosper in a coastal developments, and public land. The techniques include:
environment. Good management permeable paving of footpaths, common areas and parking
of the coastal environment is spaces above underground water storage facilities
essential for survival of a range of
species, including some unique water efficient fittings and appliances
to the island. The protection and maintaining fixtures (for example, stopping leaks and drips
preservation of native flora and from plumbing and taps)
fauna will be vital to regenerate
green roofs and living walls (that is, plantings on roofs and
fish stocks for future generations
down walls)
of commercial and recreational
anglers. appropriate landscaping (for example, efficient irrigation,
mulching, wind and sun protection, minimising lawn area
It is crucial that the natural
and selection of suitable plants)
beauty and environmental and
cultural importance of water wetlands to capture and treat run-off water
environments are protected for the capture and storage of rainwater and stormwater for
future generations to enjoy. residential re-use, or to irrigate parks, sporting fields and
Marine plans are being other open space
progressively developed to ensure the capture, treatment and re-use of wastewater.
that future development and
use of the marine environment More information about WSUD principles and techniques can be
is sustainable. Marine parks found in the WSUD Technical Manual for Greater Adelaide, available
and aquatic reserve areas have at . Although the manual focuses
recently been released and on Greater Adelaide, many WSUD techniques can be applied on
specific zoning plans will soon be Kangaroo Island.
put into operation to encompass
multiple uses and activities.
These marine plans and parks will
complement planning strategies
and need to be taken into account
in the review and updating of the
Development Plan.
23Policies Box 2—What is a coastal zone?
Chapter D Principles and policies
1.5 Protect natural coastal,
marine and estuarine areas of
high conservation, landscape Coastal zones in Development Plans incorporate:
or environmental significance coastal features and habitats that are highly sensitive to the
by limiting development in direct impacts of development, including coastal dunes, coastal
these areas. Development wetlands, samphire (tidal marsh), mangrove areas and estuaries
may require such a location
in limited circumstances— important coastal geological features and other natural features
for example, a tourism of scientific, education, heritage or cultural importance
development of state buffers separating development from sensitive coastal habitats
significance—in which case or important marine fauna sites
the development’s social
areas where exposure to coastal hazards (such as seawater
and economic benefits must
flooding or erosion) has not been addressed (for example, by a
be shown to outweigh the
seawall or a strategy to protect development)
environmental and amenity
impacts. coast protection measures such as erosion buffer areas, seawalls
and levee banks
1.6 Protect coastal features and
biodiversity by establishing high-quality coastal landscapes and land of rural character that
coastal zones (see Box 2) provides a backdrop to the coast.
that incorporate:
Areas not required to be in a coastal zone include: conservation
`` habitats that are highly areas that do not include coastal sensitive features and habitats;
sensitive to the direct landscapes that provide a backdrop to the coast but do not include
impacts of development coastal features; areas where exposure to coastal hazards has been
addressed; and farming or primary production land.
`` important geological and/
or natural features of Source: Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association, Eyre Peninsula Coastal Development
scientific, educational or Strategy, 2007.
cultural importance
`` landscapes of very high
scenic quality.
241.7 Integrate coastal management Biodiversity The Biodiversity Plan for Kangaroo
requirements into the Island South Australia (2001)
Kangaroo Island contains some
Development Plan, including: identifies two key biodiversity
of the most intact ecosystems in
areas that contain 76 per cent
`` coast protection policies the state and provides habitats
of the island’s remaining native
under the Coast Protection for the largest number of endemic
vegetation and therefore carry
Act 1972 species in South Australia. The
significant potential for the long-
island supports a large number
`` marine parks under the term retention of biodiversity.
of unique biodiversity assets,
Marine Parks Act 2007 These are the Gosse Plateau
including state and nationally
(at the western end), where 90 per
`` aquatic reserve areas threatened plants and animals.
cent is managed for conservation,
under the Fisheries Much of the eastern part of the and the South Coast, where
Management Act 2007 island has been cleared for 72 per cent is located in the
`` relevant provisions of agriculture and many unique protected areas system.
the Natural Resources plant communities in this area are
The ongoing management of the
Management Act 2004. under threat. Of the remaining
environment is required to ensure
native vegetation, 64 per cent
the protection of the island’s
is conserved in government
unique natural qualities.
reserves or under vegetation
heritage agreements. Nearly To protect the island’s biodiversity,
30 per cent of the island is ecological investigations and
reserved under the National Parks impact assessments should
and Wildlife Act 1972 and the be undertaken in areas that
Wilderness Protection Act 1992. are proposed for rezoning or
development. Some developments
Kangaroo Island also contains
may also require assessment by
some of the least disturbed inland
the Commonwealth (see Box 3).
freshwater wetlands, primarily
located on the western end. At
the eastern end, dry-land salinity
is posing a threat to wetlands.
Box 3 – Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
Applicants for and proponents of developments may be responsible
for forwarding development proposals to the Commonwealth
Environment Minister. The Minister is responsible for determining if
the action is a controlled action, under the Environment Protection
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth), and
subject to assessment and approval processes under that Act.
25Policies `` areas of environmental 1.10 Provide for environmental
Chapter D Principles and policies
1.8 Introduce a clear hierarchy significance, including connections to link areas of
of environmental areas to habitat areas and high biodiversity value and
be protected to improve lands that have human create buffers as a means of
development certainty uses, such as primary managing the interface with
and transparency, and production, but also conservation areas.
support biodiversity
incorporate the protection 1.11 Avoid any impact on
of these areas into the because the uses
biodiversity, where possible;
Development Plan. The three are of relatively low
if impact is unavoidable, it
categories in the hierarchy, environmental impact.
should be minimised and
which will be managed Higher impact land uses
offset. A comprehensive
through the Development in these areas should be
offset scheme, based on
Plan, are: avoided. If development
existing offset provisions
cannot be avoided, the
`` areas of high and drawing on models
impacts will be minimised
environmental such as bio-banking, will
and offsets provided
significance, including be developed to provide
protected public lands `` areas designated for for a net gain to biodiversity
(such as National Parks human use, where through flexible offsets.
and Conservation human use is the The offsets could be made
Parks), private/public principal consideration. across regions or by funding
lands under a Heritage Development is to be designated rehabilitation
Agreement, and land consistent with the programs. The scheme
containing high-value Development Plan and will also encourage carbon
native vegetation. These existing legislation. offsets.
areas will be protected 1.9 Recognise areas of high 1.12 Identify and ensure the
from development unless biodiversity value, and locate protection of new areas of
a specific regulatory and design development to conservation significance.
exemption applies prevent the loss, degradation
and/or fragmentation of
native vegetation and any
loss of species and/or
ecological communities.
26Scenic landscapes Policies 1.15 Avoid adverse impacts of
1.13 Acknowledge, protect and development on landscapes
Attention should be given to
manage areas of significant through site selection and
the planning and design of
landscape and amenity design alternatives. Note
development to ensure that
value (particularly coastal— that landscape screening to
significant landscapes and
see ‘Scenic landscape’ mitigate the visual impacts
associated views—both from the
areas on Maps C1 and D1) of development is not a
land and the sea—are retained.
and areas that form attractive substitute for re-siting or
The incremental approval
backgrounds and entrances re-design.
of individual developments,
including minor additions and to towns and tourist
maintenance activities, has developments.
resulted in the degradation of 1.14 Avoid development in areas
scenic resources in the past. It is with significant landscapes
important that Development Plan that can be viewed from
updates reassess landscapes tourist routes, walking trails,
and associated views and the beach or the sea, unless
devise measures to ensure their the development requires
protection. such a location (such as
The Coastal Viewscapes of South a development of state
Australia study undertaken for significance), in which case
the Department for Environment the scale, height, design and
and Heritage (DEH) 5 identifies siting of buildings must:
coastal areas on the island that
`` protect views to, from
have a ‘high coastal scenic
and along the ocean and
quality’. Similar work could
scenic coastal areas
be undertaken to determine
important non-coastal landscapes `` minimise the alteration
and to incorporate these into the of natural landforms
Development Plan.
`` be visually compatible
with the character of
surrounding areas
`` restore and enhance
visual quality in visually
degraded areas, where
feasible.
5 DEH became the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) in June 2010.
27Principle 2 Policies `` achieve more consistent
Chapter D Principles and policies
2.1 Design and plan development and rigorous decision-
Protect people, property to prevent the creation of making for long-term
and the environment from hazards and to avoid naturally land-use planning aimed
at reducing emergency
exposure to hazards occurring hazards.
and hazard risks
2.2 Decrease the risk of loss
Hazards include flooding, erosion, of life and property from `` enhance protection of
disturbance of acid sulfate soils, extreme bushfires through critical infrastructure
bushfires, salinity, landslides, the creation of buffers around `` develop building
and water, air and noise pollution new growth areas that are standards and urban
and site contamination. They adjacent to native bushland. design approaches
can occur naturally or as a that create resilient
result of development activity. 2.3 Develop other policies to
minimise the impact of environments
Inappropriately located or
designed development and land extreme bushfires in line `` reduce risks and protect
uses can increase the exposure with the findings of the 2009 natural areas and
to, and impact of, hazards. The Victorian Bushfires Royal biodiversity
potential impacts of climate Commission.
`` protect human health and
change, such as sea level rise, 2.4 Develop partnerships and the environment where
storm surges and extreme agreements between state contamination is identified
weather events, are likely to and local government to have occurred
increase the risk of hazards in (particularly with emergency
affected locations. services agencies) to address `` adopt appropriate
identified risks and hazards processes and methods
Better development planning
and protect the health and when remediating
and control measures can help
wellbeing of the community. contaminated land and
to reduce risks and hazards but
ensure its suitability for the
cannot eliminate them. 2.5 Integrate adaptation proposed zoning
to climate change and
disaster risk reduction and `` address risk, hazard and
hazard avoidance policies, emergency management
standards and actions issues in structure and
into strategic plans, the precinct planning for new
Development Plan and and existing urban areas.
development assessment
processes using best
practice models to:
`` reduce the social,
environmental and
economic impacts arising
from extreme events
282.6 Protect people, property Principle 3 Policies
and the environment 3.1 Protect and conserve places
from exposure to hazards Identify and protect places of heritage and cultural value,
(including coastal flooding, of heritage and cultural including national, state and
erosion, dune drift and
acid sulfate soils) by significance, and desired local registered sites.
designing and planning for town character 3.2 Identify the desired
development in accordance character for towns and
with the following principles: Kangaroo Island’s heritage, parts of towns, and ensure
character and cultural places the design of buildings
`` Protection—establish and public places, such as
and buildings link communities
works to protect existing streetscapes and entrances,
with the attitudes and values
development or facilitate supports the desired
that have shaped the island
major development character.
and its role in South Australian
(including stormwater
history. Identification and careful 3.3 Identify and protect sites
discharge management
management of these sites can that have Aboriginal cultural
to accommodate higher
enliven history, engender a sense significance and a guidance
tide levels)
of identity and provide a glimpse role in relation to native
`` Adaptation—design of the past that can help guide us title and Indigenous Land
buildings and in the future. Use Agreement (ILUA)
infrastructure to minimise Acts that identify and protect requirements.
risk in the long term places of heritage and cultural
`` Avoidance—avoid significance include the Heritage
permanent development Places Act 1993, the Historic
in and adjacent to areas Shipwrecks Act 1981 and the
at unacceptable risk from Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988.
hazards. The latter prohibits any damage,
disturbance or interference with
2.7 Identify and rehabilitate Aboriginal sites, objects and
areas and sites where land remains without authorisation
is contaminated as part of from the Minister for Aboriginal
development processes. Affairs and Reconciliation.
2.8 Ensure new development Aboriginal people and the State
is appropriately sited in Government’s Aboriginal Affairs
respect to existing landfills to and Reconciliation Division should
minimise the risk to people be involved early in the planning
and property from landfill and development process to
gas emissions. Continue help identify and protect sites of
to monitor gas emissions cultural significance.
from landfill sites to ensure
development is not placed
at unnecessary risk.
29Principle 4 There are opportunities to Policies
Chapter D Principles and policies
make positive and long-lasting 4.1 Promote carbon sequestration
Create the conditions for changes to the island’s water and greenhouse gas
Kangaroo Island to adapt management. Economically mitigation through land-use/
and technologically feasible
and become resilient to the measures are readily available
management practices
(for example, reintroducing
impacts of climate change to provide the water needed for vegetation and restoring
the future. A well-managed water habitat), taking into account
Reduced rainfall in recent supply includes water efficient climate and soil suitability
years is affecting the island’s technologies and approaches to and species characteristics.
agricultural and horticultural reduce water consumption. While
activities and reducing recharge not yet mandated for country 4.2 Provide buffer areas
of the island’s aquifers. Climate areas, WSUD principles should of sufficient width to
change predictions indicate that be incorporated into all new separate development
diminished rainfall will continue development. It is envisaged that from the foreshore and
to affect the island, which could by 2013 South Australia will have coastal features and to
have an impact on the tourism developed and implemented accommodate long-term
industry and economic activities, the best regulatory approach in physical coastal processes.
including primary production. Australia to mandate WSUD, as 4.3 Provide the opportunity
It will be important that the well as specific targets. for town/settlement-level
Development Plan supports the Energy supply is limited in many energy efficiency through
natural resources management parts of the island. Building design the promotion of alternative
regime, including water allocation and innovative local energy energy supplies (such as
under the Natural Resources supplies, including solar, wind and embedded generation).
Management Act 2004. co-generation, can help make the
4.4 Provide for the development
best use of available and planned
of alternative and innovative
energy supplies (see Box 4).
energy generation (for
Increasing industry, residential example, marine, biomass
and tourism related development and geothermal technologies)
will place further pressures on and water supply facilities,
energy and water supplies. as well as guidance on
Permanent resident population environmental assessment
figures do not reflect the demand requirements.
on local facilities made by visitors.
Managing demand for water and
energy use by raising awareness
among residents and holiday
makers, including infrequent
visitors, is essential to achieving
South Australia’s sustainable water
and energy efficiency targets.
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