Land management

The Crown Land Management Act 2016 (CLM Act) commenced on 1 July 2018, introducing a consolidated, modern piece of legislation to govern the management of Crown land in NSW.

In 2021, the Crown Land Management Amendment (Plan of Management) Regulation 2021 (CLM Regulation 2021) removed a requirement for councils to complete Plans of Management by 1 July 2021. This change is aimed to provide councils greater flexibility in the development of Plans of Management for Crown reserves.

The CLM Act falls within the portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson, and is administered by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands (DPHI – Crown Lands).

DPHI – Crown Lands continues to be the key contact for councils on broader aspects of the reforms including native title, the Land Negotiation Program, the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund and Crown Roads.

Every local council in NSW participates in the management of Crown reserves as an appointed CLM. Together, councils manage more than 6,000 Crown reserves. In many cases, councils also rely on volunteer groups and individuals to provide management support.

Refer to NSW Crown land manager for resources and templates.