Land and Environment Court Act 1979 No. 204.

The Land and Environment Court Act 1979 (NSW) establishes the Land and Environment Court as a superior court of record with jurisdiction over a wide range of environmental, planning, local government, land tenure, valuation, compensation, and mining matters. The Act outlines the structure and composition of the Court, including the appointment and qualifications of Judges and Commissioners, and provides for their powers, duties, and remuneration. It divides the Court’s jurisdiction into eight distinct classes, each addressing specific types of legal issues, such as appeals, enforcement actions, and compensation claims. The Act also sets out procedures for the exercise of jurisdiction, including conciliation conferences, on-site hearings, and court hearings, with provisions for mandatory conciliation and arbitration in certain cases. It details the powers of the Court to make orders, enforce rights, and determine legal and equitable claims comprehensively. Appeals from the Court are regulated, with specific provisions for appeals to the Supreme Court and internal appeals on questions of law. Further, the Act includes miscellaneous provisions concerning court procedures, appearance rights, evidence, contempt, and disrespectful behaviour. It empowers the Court to make rules and practice notes, approve forms, and issue directions where rules are silent. Schedules attached to the Act address the terms of office, remuneration, and rights of Commissioners, as well as transitional and savings provisions arising from legislative amendments over time.