The implementation of social impact assessment in local government

Abstract

The nature of development throughout past generations has delivered some valuable lessons to those who are impacted by it. Subsequently, instituting sustainable development practices has become a key goal of governments – national and international – as well as professionals within the field of planning and development. This has resulted in a range of legislative and policy shifts that are designed to encourage development that is environmentally, economically and socially sustainable. The implementation of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) policy within many local governments in Australia has been an important step toward ensuring that development-related decisions and outcomes take appropriate account of social and cultural impacts on communities and individuals. However, the existence of SIA policy does not guarantee its successful implementation within local government contexts. This analysis of SIA literature provides a basis for local governments to identify and address the challenges that may arise when implementing SIA policy.