NSW has set out a package of planning reforms intended to speed up approvals, make assessment clearer, and reduce agency bottlenecks. For Master Builder members, the practical takeaway is straightforward: some decision-making is being pushed back to local pathways, State agency input is being centralised, and DA requirements and conditions are being made more consistent.

1) Regionally significant development returns to local pathways (rolled out in stages)
NSW is removing the Regionally Significant Development pathway and the associated Sydney District and Regional Planning Panels. Their responsibilities will be transferred to Local Planning Panels or councils. Revised referral criteria will be prepared so expert panel input is focused on larger, more complex projects, with other applications determined by council staff.

2) Development Coordination Authority to centralise State agency input (rolled out in stages)
The Development Coordination Authority (DCA) will be established to streamline and centralise the State’s role in planning approvals. It is intended to provide one coordinated response on concurrences and referrals and act as a single point of contact for councils and applicants, while leaving determination functions unchanged. Full statutory powers commence in July 2026.

3) Planning pathways expand beyond “CDC or full DA”
The complying development pathway will be expanded by allowing councils to approve minor variations to development standards (such as setbacks and landscaping) without forcing an otherwise compliant proposal into a full DA. A new Targeted Assessment Pathway is also proposed for certain development that has undergone strategic planning or meets specific codes and controls, with the ability to switch off steps (like exhibition or referrals) where those matters have already been addressed.

4) Assessment, conditions, and post-consent changes are being simplified
Reforms embed a more proportionate, risk-based assessment approach, including a requirement for consent authorities to focus on significant likely impacts. Standard and model conditions of consent will be introduced via a SEPP, and for certain developments, consent authorities will be required to consult with applicants on draft conditions before issuing consent. Changes also streamline some minor modifications and improve review and appeal settings where timeframes are missed.

Bottom line: the reforms are staged, with further work to be developed through consultation. Builders will get the best outcomes by lodging well-organised documentation that clearly demonstrates compliance, tracking referrals closely, and managing conditions proactively.

For more information, visit The Department of Planning