Under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA) the definition of "development" includes the demolition, removal, conversion, alteration or painting of, or addition to, a State heritage place or any other work that could materially affect the heritage value of the place [s 3].

Such development requires authorisation under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA) but must also be referred to the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water for advice, expert assessment and direction on the potential impacts of development on the heritage significance of a place.

Since the introduction of the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA), the Minister now has greater authority to direct decision making about the alteration or demolition of a State Heritage Place. However the ultimate assessment decision rests with Council (or sometimes the State Commission Assessment Panel).

A development application involving demolition of State heritage place cannot be made unless accompanied by a finalised report prepared by the South Australian Heritage Council (in accordance with section 37 of the Heritage Places Act 1993 (SA)) [Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 (SA). s 119A].

For conservation and development advice, call Heritage South Australia on 8372 7521 and press option 1 at any time for Conservation and Development enquiries or email DEW.StateHeritageDA@sa.gov.au