NSW Reforms: Investment Delivery Authority (IDA)
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Category — NSW Reforms Series
The Investment Delivery Authority, announced on 15 September 2025, is modelled on the successful Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) and aims to fast-track major non-residential projects that drive economic growth and job creation in NSW.
Its focus includes renewable energy, data centres, and hotel developments, with eligibility requiring:
- Project value of $1 billion+ (non-residential), or $200 million+ for hotels,
- Alignment with strategic priorities (e.g. Visitor Economy Strategy 2035),
- Demonstrated readiness to commence, and
- Identification of barriers requiring government support.
The IDA Board includes the Secretary of the Premier’s Department, Treasury, and Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, and the Chief Executive of Infrastructure NSW. Projects are assessed via an Expression of Interest (EOI) process.
While promising, further clarity is needed on SEARs issuance, timeframes, and the IDA’s decision-making authority.
Our initial thoughts
The IDA is a timely initiative to attract private investment and support New South Wales’ growing population. Population is expected to increase between 80,000 to a 120,000 annually. Together with the HDA, it forms a powerful framework to advance housing and employment outcomes.
For years, the role of tourism and the visitor economy in shaping New South Wales have often been overlooked in planning conversations even as cities like Sydney and Newcastle continue to captivate global audiences. IDA support for hotels marks a shift in recognising tourism’s role in the economy, while its backing of renewable energy projects aligns with Australia’s net-zero goals. However, legacy regulatory layers may still pose challenges.
Despite this, the IDA offers a hopeful pathway. With clearer guidance and streamlined processes, we are optimistic that these reforms could help to unlock significant economic and environmental benefits for NSW.
Read more about the suite of reforms in our article series below, or contact our NSW Planning Team to discuss how the changes might affect your projects or development strategy.
Karmi Palafox
Principal Town Planner
Sydney / Gamaragal Country
Corne van Rooyen
Associate Town Planner
Sydney / Gamaragal Country
Read more about the Investment Delivery Authority here.
NSW Reforms Series
The New EP&A Amendment Act 2025
Planning System Reform Bill 2025
Low and Mid-Rise Housing Pattern Book
