Once finalised, the desktop assessment results and recommendations should be discussed with the RAP.
- The RAP will at this stage have another opportunity to assess and provide suggested improvements to the desktop assessment. The objective is to reach agreement on the information to be presented and on the question about whether a standard or complex assessment is required.
- If the desktop assessment results require a standard assessment, proceed to Step 4.
- If following the desktop assessment, it is determined a complex assessment will be undertaken for some or all the relevant parts of the activity area without a standard assessment, proceed to Step 7.
- Proceed to Step 10 if no further assessment is required and the CHMP will be submitted for approval.
The objective of each CHMP meeting is to reach agreement between the RAP and HA on next steps.
While agreement is desirable, the HA has the responsibility to decide whether to advise the Sponsor a standard or complex assessment should occur, and the Sponsor is responsible for ensuring that the correct assessments occur. This is consistent with section 58 of the Act, which provides the HA with the function of assisting a Sponsor to prepare a CHMP and section 53 of the Act, which requires sponsors to ensure the CHMP is prepared in accordance with the prescribed standards and the assessment activities are compliant. Sponsors and RAPs have the right not to agree with HA advice (see Appendix 3).
However, DPC does not expect a standard or complex assessment would normally proceed without RAP agreement, considering this would violate Principles 1, 2 and 3 (see Appendix 9). Whilst it is open for the Sponsor to accept this risk, it should be noted if the CHMP is finalised and submitted for evaluation after the desktop stage, it is understood the RAP may refuse to approve the CHMP if it is not satisfied it is adequate to address section 61 matters (see Appendix 6).
- If the RAP and HA disagree on the question of whether a standard or complex assessment is required, DPC, and alternative dispute resolution are available to assist (see Appendix 10).
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