Projects

Cost-Benefit Analysis of 'PlanFirst'

Planning NSW, the government department responsible for planning in the Australian state of New South Wales, was reforming the planning system through the preparation and implementation of regional planning statewide. It was also proposing other measures to improve the integration of the planning process. As part of Planning NSW's funding application to the State Treasury, a rigorous business case was required.

SGS investigated potential funding sources, established performance indicators and the benefits likely to flow from the program. Using econometric modelling outputs, SGS was able to estimate the impacts on government finances over a 20-year period. The business case produced a robust estimate of project costs and benefits, and demonstrated both a net increase in community welfare, as well as a net positive cash flow for Government in the medium term.

SGS's findings were highly influential in Planning NSW being able to secure Government funding for the rollout of regional plans. Report findings have been widely cited in making an economic case for strategic planning.