Housing Delivery Authority Expressions of Interest Now Open
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The NSW Government has launched a streamlined process for major housing developments under the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA). This initiative is designed to boost housing supply and affordability, as outlined in the Housing Accord. By operating within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, the HDA provides an alternative pathway for large-scale residential projects. Notably, developers can now submit proposals through the Expression of Interest (EOI) process, which commenced on 8 January 2025.
The HDA was created to accelerate decision-making for high-priority housing projects. Furthermore, it complements existing pathways and aims to deliver more homes by 2029. This initiative also introduces a concurrent rezoning option for developments requiring adjustments to planning controls, simplifying the approval process for eligible projects.
Overview of the HDA InitiativeThe HDA offers a new approval pathway for State Significant Developments (SSD). Specifically, it caters to projects valued at $60 million or more in Greater Sydney and $30 million or more in regional NSW. These thresholds correspond to approximately 100 homes in Greater Sydney and 40 homes in regional areas. Although developers may still choose traditional pathways assessed by councils or planning panels, the HDA pathway is particularly suited to fast-tracking significant projects.
Throughout the Housing Accord period, which ends in June 2029, the EOI process will remain open. Submissions are reviewed monthly, giving developers frequent opportunities to participate. Approved projects under this pathway must still follow the standard public exhibition and assessment procedures required for SSD applications. As a result, this initiative aligns with the NSW Government’s broader strategy to address the growing need for affordable and well-located homes.
Key Criteria for HDA SSD ProposalsThe HDA evaluates EOIs against specific criteria to decide if a project qualifies as State Significant Development. These criteria ensure projects are suitable for rapid assessment and delivery while supporting state housing priorities. To qualify, proposals must meet the following conditions:
- High-yield housing types: Eligible projects include multi-dwelling housing, residential flat buildings, shop-top housing, and seniors housing.
- Development cost: Proposals must exceed $60 million in Greater Sydney or $30 million in regional NSW.
- Compliance with standards: Developments must adhere to applicable standards or exceed them by no more than 20%.
- Quick commencement: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to lodge applications within nine months of receiving SEARs and begin construction within 12 months of approval.
- Land ownership: Secure land tenure, such as ownership or an option to purchase, is required.
- Contribution schemes: Developers must comply with local contribution plans to fund necessary infrastructure.
If a proposal significantly exceeds development standards or involves prohibited activities, it must include a concurrent rezoning application. Consequently, this ensures that flexibility in approvals does not compromise planning integrity.
Project Team Roles and ResponsibilitiesThe HDA process involves coordination among several key entities, each playing a critical role in ensuring the timely delivery of housing projects:
- Housing Delivery Authority (HDA): Reviews EOIs, recommends approval pathways, and ensures projects align with state housing priorities.
- Minister for Planning: Decides on SSD declarations or concurrent rezoning applications based on HDA recommendations.
- Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure: Manages the SSD application process, including issuing Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) and conducting assessments.
- Applicants: Submit EOIs and SSD applications, demonstrating compliance with criteria and readiness to proceed with construction.
By defining responsibilities clearly, this streamlined structure promotes efficiency and accountability at every stage of the development process.
Streamlined SEARs for Residential DevelopmentsTo enhance the housing delivery process further, the HDA has introduced a single set of Industry-Specific SEARs for all major residential projects. These requirements simplify the assessment process, providing developers with consistent guidance. Developed through stakeholder consultation, the SEARs aim to expedite high-priority housing proposals.
By standardising these requirements, the HDA minimises delays and ensures that evaluations are consistent across projects. Additionally, developers are expected to lodge SSD applications within nine months of receiving SEARs, reinforcing the commitment to timely project delivery.
Role of the Housing TaskforceThe Housing Taskforce was established to complement the HDA by addressing systemic issues in planning and housing delivery. This multi-agency group focuses on several priorities:
- Monitoring advice from state agencies and prioritising approvals for housing projects.
- Resolving post-consent delays in construction and completion.
- Improving referral and approval systems to enhance overall efficiency.
- Encouraging a customer-focused approach within planning and development processes.
Through these efforts, the Taskforce plays a crucial role in achieving the Housing Accord’s goals by removing bottlenecks and driving systemic improvements across the housing sector.
Objectives of the Housing Delivery AuthorityThe HDA is responsible for meeting several key objectives that align with the Housing Accord:
- Increasing housing supply: By identifying and fast-tracking high-yield projects, the HDA supports the state’s target of delivering 377,000 new homes by 2029.
- Ensuring affordability: Proposals must contribute to the supply of affordable housing to improve accessibility.
- Supporting well-located developments: Priority is given to projects near transport, services, and infrastructure, ensuring homes are built in convenient and accessible areas.
- Encouraging compliance: The HDA favours proposals that largely comply with existing planning controls, ensuring alignment with broader urban planning objectives.
Developers interested in the HDA pathway must submit an EOI detailing their project’s scope, location, and compliance with the specified criteria. Submissions are reviewed monthly throughout the Housing Accord period, which runs until June 2029. Successful proposals are recommended to the Minister for Planning for SSD declaration or concurrent rezoning approval.
Applicants must also demonstrate readiness to proceed, including secure land ownership, adherence to local contribution plans, and a commitment to timely construction. Consequently, this process identifies projects that can deliver significant housing outcomes within the stipulated timeframe.
For more information, visit the NSW Planning website.
Source: Urban Digest
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