Under the updated Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS), some existing DSPs are formally recognised, while others have undergone a further assessment process to determine whether they should transition into the new statutory framework.
MRS Clause 70 – Particular existing documents taken to be district structure plans
The MRS was updated through the Planning and Development Amendment (Metropolitan Region Scheme) Act 2024. The amendments introduce a clear statutory framework for the preparation, approval, amendment and revocation of DSPs.
On 31 March 2025, the modernised MRS took effect. The updated MRS provides the WAPC with the power to prepare and approve DSPs under the new legislative framework.
Clause 70 of the MRS recognises several existing planning documents as DSPs under the scheme.
The following documents are to be taken to be DSPs:
- Burswood Peninsula District Structure Plan (March 2015)
- Cockburn Coast District Structure Plan (September 2009)
- East Wanneroo District Structure Plan (August 2021)
- North Ellenbrook (West) District Structure Plan (November 2022)
- North Ellenbrook (East) District Structure Plan (October 2022)
These plans continue to guide planning and development decisions under the MRS.
Process
District Structure Plans recognised under the MRS guide planning decisions and are periodically reviewed by the WAPC.
The process generally involves the following steps:
- Recognition: On commencement of the modernised MRS, the six listed documents are legally recognised as district structure plans approved by the WAPC under clause 15 of the MRS.
- Implementation: Planning decisions may rely on these plans in accordance with the MRS and relevant WAPC policies.
- Monitoring: The WAPC monitors the operation of these plans and schedules in line with the MRS documented monitoring cycles.
- Reporting: Review outcomes, including any recommendations or updates, are documented and published where appropriate.
Review cycle
The WAPC must review the operation and effectiveness of each DSP within six months after certain anniversaries of the plan’s commencement.
- Anniversaries: The 10th, 20th and 30th year anniversaries, and every 10 years after.
- Reviews: The WAPC must complete a review of each plan within six months after each anniversary.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Show moreDoes clause 70 of the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) replace the content of these plans?
No. Clause 70 simply recognises the listed documents as District Structure Plans (DSPs) prepared under clause 15 of the MRS. The content of the plans remains unchanged unless it is amended or replaced through the appropriate statutory process.
What if a plan is updated before an anniversary?
Plans may still be updated through the normal statutory or policy processes at any time. The review requirement under clause 70 still applies to the plan in force at the time of the anniversary review.
Where can I access the plans?
The plans are published on wa.gov.au
More information
For more information, visit the Metropolitan Region Scheme page.
Further information about District Structure Plans can be found in the WA Planning Manual.
For information on additional District Structure Plans that were assessed and transitioned under clauses 71 and 72 of the modernised MRS, see the Transitioned District Structure Plans page.
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