Development application (DA) assessments in NSW could take twice as fast under a new round of reforms kicking in later this month.
The state government says the new changes will take effect on March 21.
It says the changes involve:
- Fast-tracking assessments by up to 50% for low-risk developments;
- 14-day approvals for minor changes to development applications (DAs) with no environmental impact; and
- Fast-tracking environmental assessments by public authorities in the absence of a DA.
Planning Minister Paul Scully says they are “removing unnecessary roadblocks” that blocked new homes, jobs and infrastructure.
“For too long, the planning system focused on process rather than outcomes,” he says.
FAST-TRACKING ASSESSMENTS
The minister claims this focus led to 90% of DA assessments for projects of $1 million or less and wants to clear that ‘backlog’.
“We’ve been sweating the small stuff which has led to delays and a system that had lost focus on its role,” Scully says.
“We’re refocusing planning efforts … by making it faster for low-risk development to get moving so we can get more new keys in more new doors faster.”
The government says it is also making the planning system easier to navigate by halving the number of circulars that help guide people through the system.
The changes follow up on a first round of reforms to the NSW Planning Systems Act 2025 which set up a Development Co-ordination Authority, cemented the Housing Delivery Authority and bestowed new powers on dealing with ‘zombie’ DAs.
Click here for more details about the NSW planning reforms.
BLACKWATTLE BAY
Meanwhile, the government has signed a contract with Mirvac to redevelop the site of the former fish market at Blackwattle Bay.
The project will start by filling in a missing link in a 15-kilometre boardwalk from Woolloomooloo to Rozelle Bay.
There will be 1400 new homes, more than three hectares of public space like parks, walkways and cycleways, and commercial outlets next to the new Sydney Fish Market: click here for the story on the new market’s opening.
Work is already under way with a 1.1ha Bank Street Park taking shape under the Anzac Bridge.
To find out more about Blackwattle Bay visit: blackwattlebay.insw.com
