We used what we heard during consultation to make changes and refinements to the final version of the framework.
A summary of the main themes emerging from consultation is provided below.
More detailed information about monitoring and evaluations
We heard the framework needs more detailed information about what will be evaluated, how and when. Some stakeholders suggested indicators, targets and evaluation sub-questions on specific components of the planning system.
Evaluation frameworks and evaluation plans serve different purposes. An evaluation framework can be used to provide guidance and direction for different evaluations of a single program. This often includes higher-level guidance on data sources, management and reporting processes and principles.
Evaluation plans typically include more detail about what component of a program is to be evaluated, the data that will be collected, how and when, how data will be analysed and how and when results will be reported.
With this difference in mind, the framework was updated to incorporate further detail about monitoring and evaluation approaches, including incorporating headline indicators. However, feedback of this nature will be used and most valuable to inform evaluation planning.
Making information accessible
We heard that for evaluation findings to be useful for community, industry and government, information released about the framework should be easy to understand. We also heard that, where possible, technical evaluation terms and concepts should be explained or simplified.
To respond to this feedback, more definitions were added to the framework to explain terms like evaluation, monitoring, program logic and baseline data.
Information collected under the framework will be a useful tool to help Canberrans have their say on the planning system. The framework’s principle of ‘Good, diverse and accessible engagement’ reinforces the importance of making reporting and communication about the framework clear and easy to understand.
Long-term outcomes and links to other policy targets
We heard it’s important for the framework to link to and complement other relevant
ACT Government policies and strategies. This was seen as an important way to maintain a view of longer-term outcomes the planning system may contribute to over time. It was also seen as a useful way to make use of related work that is already happening across government.
A list of related policies was added to the framework under ‘Other government policies.’ Significant work has been done to set appropriate targets and measures in related policies. Reporting, data collection and indicators for related government policies will be considered under the framework. This information is expected to be used to improve our understanding of how well the planning system is enabling related policy outcomes and long-term outcomes.
Transparency and engagement
We heard that stakeholder perceptions of how well the planning system is working should be a part of evaluation. We also heard that external involvement in evaluations and regular reporting will build transparency.
Proponents, community and government will have opportunities to provide feedback on the planning system through new channels, like surveys and interviews, and existing channels, like feedback and complaint processes.
Regular reporting on development statistics and indicators relating to the planning system will continue, including on the planning website and in EPSDD Annual Reports. Further annual evaluation framework reporting is planned to build on, and bring together, relevant data and information.
Planning for evaluations early
We heard that work should start early to evaluate planning outcomes.
The framework proposes an early evaluation of process outcomes and a later evaluation of planning outcomes. This is because it will take longer to see change in areas like design, built form, housing and nature conservation.
While evaluation of planning outcomes is proposed for later in the life of the framework, work will start early to prepare. This will include working collaboratively across government to identify baseline data and consider indicators that will support evaluation of planning outcomes.
