Unlocking NSW Planning Potential: Five Key Reforms Shaping the Future
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Category — Insights, NSW Reforms Series
In response to mounting housing pressures, infrastructure demands, and the need for a more agile planning system, the NSW Government has introduced a suite of planning reforms aimed at modernising how development is assessed, approved, and delivered. These changes reflect a strategic shift toward enabling faster housing delivery, improving transparency, and supporting innovation in the built environment.
From financial guarantees for stalled residential projects to sweeping legislative updates, these reforms signal a proactive approach to tackling the state’s planning challenges head-on. In this article, we unpack five of the most significant recent initiatives and explore what they mean for developers, councils, and communities across NSW.
These are a follow-up to the summary that we shared in March 2025. Nationwide Housing Reforms — Tract
Read our coverage of the recent reforms, and what they might mean:
The New EP&A Amendment Act 2025
The New EP&A Amendment Act 2025
Planning System Reform Bill 2025
Planning System Reform Bill 2025
Investment Delivery Authority
Investment Delivery Authority
Low and Mid-Rise Housing Pattern Book
Low and Mid-Rise Housing Pattern Book
Pre-sale Finance Guarantee Program
Pre-sale Finance Guarantee Program
NSW Town Planning Leads
To discuss how the changes might affect your projects or development strategy, contact our NSW Planning team.
Karmi Palafox
Principal Town Planner
Sydney / Gamaragal Country
