How long does the EIS assessment process take?

The State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971 sets out the EIS process for declared coordinated projects. The Act states that, after the terms of reference for an EIS is finalised, a proponent has 18 months to provide an EIS that is accepted as addressing the terms of reference. This can require several rounds of public consultation.

Timeframes for assessment of the final EIS vary depending on project complexities and the standard of information provided by proponents.

If a proponent needs additional time to prepare and finalise the EIS, they can request an extension of time to the 18-month period allowed for under the Act.

Details of the timeframes granted for the proponent are available on the government’s EIS process

When an EIS is accepted as ‘final’ the evaluation of the EIS proceeds, taking into consideration submissions received, and an evaluation report on the project’s EIS is produced.