The NSW Government has introduced a series of changes to the planning system that significantly alter how development is planned and approved in the City of Canada Bay. These changes shift key planning decisions away from local Councils and communities to the State Government - particularly for large developments and housing around transport hubs and town centres.
What are the new planning changes?
Housing Delivery Authority
A new Housing Delivery Authority now has the power to declare projects as State Significant Development. Once a project is declared State Significant, it is assessed by the NSW Government rather than through Council-led planning processes, bypassing local input.
State-led rezoning
An increasing number of State-led rezonings, including those at North Strathfield and Burwood North around the future Metro West stations, mean the State is taking direct control of planning for major precincts previously shaped through local planning processes.
Low and mid-rise housing
New low and mid-rise housing rules now apply within 800 metres of town centres and transport hubs. These provisions allow developments such as dual occupancies, terraces, townhouses and 3-6 storey apartment buildings in areas where local planning controls have previously limited this type of development.
The current situation in Canada Bay
The City of Canada Bay is experiencing a significant wave of State Significant Development Applications (SSDAs), with 17 major proposals now in the planning system.
Collectively, these SSDAs account for over 11,000 new dwellings, signalling a scale of growth that will reshape neighbourhoods across Concord West, Rhodes, Strathfield and Five Dock.
While Council traditionally played a central role in assessing development of this magnitude, the shift of these proposals to the State level limits our ability to influence the planning outcomes that directly affect our community.
The potential impacts of this State-led development pipeline are significant. Such large-scale proposals place pressure on local roads, public transport, open space, community facilities and the overall character of established suburbs.
What can we do?
Council's concern around these changes was discussed at the February 2026 Council Meeting, where councillors unanimously resolved to launch a public awareness campaign about these changes.
"We recognise the importance of new housing to address Sydney's shortage - and we are already doing our part by exceeding our housing targets," Mayor Michael Megna said.
"We've done the heavy lifting on housing. Now it's time for the State Government to do the heavy lifting on infrastructure. Growth without amenity is not sustainable."
"We will continue to strongly advocate for the community to make sure the services, transport and facilities our growing City needs are delivered - not left behind."
