Backlog of cases shows planning system is broken
An independent development approval arbitrator is needed to consider appeals after number of cases doubled in a decade, according to HIA

AN independent development approval (DA) arbitrator is needed to consider appeals after number of cases doubled in a decade, according to the Housing Industry Association.
Brad Armitage, HIA Executive Director NSW says that the backlog of cases in the NSW Land and Environment Court is a symptom of a broken planning system.
“The doubling of cases in the last 10 years is further evidence that the planning system is slow and complex and in urgent need of reform,” he said.
“Current delays in getting approvals and restrictive council requirements are a significant issue for the construction industry.
“This is adding unnecessary additional costs, delaying projects and impacting feasibility.
“Changes are needed to make it easier to build new homes now.”
Mr Armitage said there was a need for an independent arbitrator as part of the process to speed up DA.
“The major parties have indicated a willingness to work together to review the planning system and improvements to the appeals process would need to be a key part of any review,” he said.
“Opportunities to streamline the process and make it more efficient must be considered.
“As part of this HIA proposes the appointment of an independent DA Arbitrator to consider appeals related to single or secondary dwellings, dual occupancies and associated ancillary development.
“However, we also need to look at what existing levers we can use today such increasing the use of complying development to address some of the fundamental issues leading to increased rate of appeals and the backlog in the court.” Australian Conveyancer highlighted this issue after a list of councils was drawn up showing the slowest across New South Wales.
Georges River residents faced an average wait time of 289 days, placing the council at the bottom of the efficiency rankings table.
Find out which other councils were featured here https://www.australianconveyancer.com.au/article/how-can-it-take-289-days-to-wait-for-development-approval/