Planning for equal outcomes

Planning for diverse communities is complex and requires explicit analysis of the needs and aspirations from the start of a project. Integrating this into existing planning process can be challenging and requires the adoption of new innovative assessment methods.

Planners play a pivotal role in influencing the type of effects that require analysis within planning processes. With the current emphasis on wellbeing outcomes, this presentation will explore how Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA), a legislative requirement in the United Kingdom, could be adjusted and applied in Aotearoa for various stages of planning including, policy development, consultation, and engagement as well as to support statutory consenting processes.

EqIA is a useful evidence-based approach designed to help decision-making processes be fair and respond to the needs of diverse groups. Conducting equality analysis through the development of a project provides an opportunity to mitigate unintended adverse impacts on groups with protected characteristics, including age, disability, race, and religion. It also assists with identifying and quantifying positive impacts, thereby helping to promote the project, policy, or programme.

The presentation will outline the methods, timing, and practical steps for integrating equality assessment methods and for the application of EqIA in the planning framework. Case studies will illustrate where EqIA has been used to inform planning processes and deliver better outcomes. Further, the presentation will explore how this equality analysis could provide for improved wellbeing outcomes in Aotearoa, including informing the creation of a Social Inclusion Act as recommended by the Productivity Commission, to address persistent disadvantage in our communities.