Big boost to fast-track council development approvals
Property Council says 'improving assessment performance is one of the most effective ways to accelerate housing supply'.
THE multi-million dollar release of grants to local councils will “reduce development assessment timeframes and support housing growth”, according the Property Council of Australia.
Over $54 million in grants has been announced by the NSW Government to support councils in fast-tracking housing construction.
Property Council NSW executive director Katie Stevenson said rewarding councils that are making it easier to get new housing approved was a practical approach to tackling the state’s housing supply shortage while giving communities the infrastructure they need to grow.
“NSW needs more homes and we need them delivered faster,” Stevenson said.
“Councils assess most development applications across the state, so improving assessment performance is one of the most effective ways to accelerate housing supply.
“It’s encouraging to see the government recognising and rewarding councils that are cutting red tape, reducing delays and helping bring forward new housing opportunities for their communities.
“The funding includes $9 million to support projects across five Hunter councils and another $6 million for four councils in the Illawarra-Shoalhaven.
“The Faster Assessments Incentive Program also acknowledges housing growth must be accompanied by investment in the roads, parks, sporting facilities and community spaces that make neighbourhoods great places to live.”
Stevenson said the Property Council had consistently advocated for faster, more efficient planning and assessment processes across all levels of government and supported measures that improve performance and accountability.
“The continued focus on assessment timeframes is delivering results. Faster decisions provide greater certainty for communities, councils and industry, helping projects proceed sooner and getting more homes into the pipeline,” she said.
“We look forward to seeing the outcomes of future funding rounds and continuing to work with government and councils on reforms that improve planning system performance and support the delivery of new housing across NSW.”
Councils successful in round one of the Faster Assessments Incentive Program include Wollongong City Council, Lake Macquarie City Council, Blacktown City Council, Cessnock City Council, City of Parramatta Council, Port Stephens Council, Cumberland City Council and Campbelltown City Council.
