Lands Acquisition Framework (RMG 501)

RMG 501 has been updated to include reference the implementation of recommendations from the LAA Review. It includes guidance on stakeholder engagement and public parks. For further information, please contact LAA@finance.gov.au.

RMGs are guidance documents. The purpose of an RMG is to support PGPA Act entities and companies in meeting the requirements of the PGPA framework. As guides, RMGs explain the legislation and policy requirements in plain English. RMGs support accountable authorities and officials to apply the intent of the framework. It is an official’s responsibility to ensure that Finance guidance is monitored regularly for updates, including changes in policy/requirements.

Audience

The Lands Acquisition Framework is mandatory for officials and accountable authorities of non-corporate Commonwealth entities (NCEs) and corporate Commonwealth entities (CCEs), unless otherwise exempt.

Flipchart for NCEs and CCEs

See the Lands Acquisition Regulations 2017 for exempt authorities (entities). There are also some entities which are exempt from the LAA under their enabling legislation rather than the Lands Acquisition Regulations 2017.

Entities must follow their legal and policy obligations and are responsible for ensuring compliance with the Lands Acquisition Framework (the Framework), and the Lands Acquisition Act 1989 (LAA).

Key points

The LAA is the key legislation used by the Commonwealth to acquire and dispose of interests in land to support the delivery of Government priorities, services and outcomes.
The LAA defines interests in land broadly. This means that transactions involving interests in land have a wider meaning under the LAA than simply purchasing or selling land and include other property transactions such as leasing office space, licences and easements.
NCEs must comply with the Framework when undertaking transactions requiring authorisation under the LAA. CCEs that are exempt should strongly consider referring to the Framework, including referenced policies and procedures, which are consistent with good practice.

Resources

Related resources including acquisition resources, relevant legislation, policies and glossary terms are located in the right-hand menu.

Key information to assist you in meeting your requirements

Introduction

Introduction to the Lands Acquisition Framework, including information on the PGPA Act, the Commonwealth Procurement Rules, delegations and obligations when interacting with external parties.

Acquisition

Information on acquisition strategies, acquisitions by agreement and compulsory acquisitions, as well as guidance on public parks, overseas land and leasing transactions.

Valuation

Outlines valuation principles, methodology and instructions, and reiterates the importance of engaging an independent valuer by providing guidance on choosing a valuer, consideration of valuers' conferences and valuation reports.

Compensation and other payments

Information relating to compensation and other payments, legislative compliance, potential types of compensation and taxation considerations.

Stakeholder engagement

Principles and information to guide stakeholder engagement in property acquisitions and disposals.

Disposal

Information and requirements for Commonwealth property disposals.

Reporting

Reporting requirements to Parliament and the Department of Finance, and information on Australian Government Property Register and AusTender reporting.