Homes Approved in Just 10 Days: NSW Launches New Planning Policy
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The NSW Government has introduced a significant update to its planning policy aimed at addressing housing affordability and expediting home approvals through the release of the NSW Housing Pattern Book. This initiative offers an innovative Complying Development pathway that allows certain types of homes to be approved within ten days, effective from 30 July 2025.
Overview of the NSW Housing Pattern Book
The NSW Housing Pattern Book (https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/government-architect-nsw/housing-design/nsw-housing-pattern-book) features eight government-endorsed home designs, selected through an international design competition held in 2024. These designs include various options such as terraces, townhouses, and manor houses, targeting different demographics including families, young professionals, and downsizers.
Typically, architect-designed home plans may cost upwards of $20,000. However, under this initiative, the government has reduced these costs significantly to $1,000 per design. Additionally, for the first six months following the launch, each pattern will be available for a nominal fee of just $1.
Design Features and Sustainability
Each Pattern Book design prioritizes adaptability and sustainability, catering to various household sizes and lifestyle requirements. Purchasers also receive a complimentary Landscape Pattern, which supports biodiversity and matches the local climate.
Complying Development Pathway Explained
The newly created ten-day Complying Development pathway simplifies the home approval process, allowing builders and homeowners to proceed to construction much more quickly than traditional approval processes. Applications under this pathway will still require appropriate assessments but will eliminate many common bureaucratic delays.
Alignment with Broader Housing Reforms
The Pattern Book and associated fast-track approval pathway complement recent Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy reforms, which broadened the permissible use of terraces, townhouses, and manor houses across NSW. These reforms encourage development around key infrastructure such as transport hubs and town centres, fostering community accessibility and diversity.
Official Statements
Premier Chris Minns highlighted the practical impact of the new policy, emphasizing its goal to simplify processes and provide affordable housing options. Minister for Planning Paul Scully underscored the reduced complexity and improved efficiency provided by these designs. Government Architect Abbie Galvin focused on the community and environmental benefits of adaptable and sustainable housing designs.
The NSW Housing Pattern Book and the Complying Development pathway represent a substantial policy shift aimed at improving housing affordability, supply, and sustainability across NSW, offering residents a practical approach to home building.
Do you want help with the new Complying Development pathway? Or perhaps you need help with something else? Get in touch and we will be able to assist within 24 hours.
