NSW Government builds on Housing Taskforce response

The NSW Government will accept all 15 recommendations put forward by the Regional Housing Taskforce to help deliver improved housing supply and affordability in regional NSW.

The comprehensive suite of measures includes more homes for key workers, accelerating development assessments, and identifying options to use Government land for more social and affordable housing.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the acceptance of all 15 recommendations, as well as investing $2.8 billion in housing as part of the NSW Budget, demonstrates the State Government’s commitment to addressing housing challenges.

"We are getting on with the job of easing housing pressures in the regions, both now and for the future," Mr Toole said.

"We've listened to the recommendations of the Regional Housing Taskforce and put together a comprehensive, multi-pronged plan to unlock land and drive the supply of new and affordable homes. 

“It builds on the investment we’ve made through the NSW Budget to improve housing supply and ensure locals and key workers moving to the regions have a place to call home."

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said regional councils will benefit from a share of $12 million to help them plan for housing that is affordable, diverse, and resilient to natural hazards.

“The councils can apply for up to $250,000 each through the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund, to help them undertake the up-front planning work needed to speed up housing delivery,” Mr Roberts said.

“The grants will help councils deliver strategic plans, housing policies and technical studies that pave the way for new homes needed to support growing communities.

“Our initial $30 million Regional Housing Fund is already helping 21 regional councils in high-growth areas deliver 25 new projects to provide services, open space and connections to fast-track a pipeline of new homes.”

The Government’s response also includes:

  • Delivering around 270 more homes for key frontline workers in the regions;

  • Expanding the Urban Development Program to more high-growth regional areas, to improve infrastructure coordination and delivery;

  • Improving data by auditing residential land, identifying infrastructure gaps and environmental constraints, to establish a clearer housing supply pipeline;

  • Identifying opportunities to use suitable Crown land for social and affordable housing development;

  • Working with local government to improve assessment timeframes for new housing through the Faster Local Assessment Grant program;

  • Investigating the introduction of standardised planning pathways for certain types of temporary accommodation, to address spikes in housing demand; and

  • Preparing Regional Housing Delivery Plans in targeted economic areas.

Councils have until 30 September 2022 to submit their applications for the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund.

Sara Johnston