Property Council NSW Executive Director Anita Hugo said the mid-rise additions build on the success of the low-rise pattern book, which the organisation has championed through a statewide roadshow with the Government Architect.
"This is exactly the kind of practical tool the industry needs," Ms Hugo said.
"We backed the first tranche of patterns because it paired good design with faster pathways. Expanding the Pattern Book into mid-rise is the logical next move."
The government's new patterns range from three to six storeys and include designs for small, large and corner lots. They aim to support the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy's ambition to deliver more homes close to transport, services and jobs.
Ms Hugo said the modelling would only work if councils and the planning system move at the speed the reforms demand.
"Mid-rise is where the state will make real gains on supply. These designs are solid and buildable. Now the job is to make the approvals process match the ambition."
Ms Hugo said the government had committed to reducing average DA times and to giving mid-rise patterns early access to a new targeted assessment pathway.
"We've said consistently that good design doesn't count for anything if projects get stuck for months waiting for a decision. Faster, predictable assessments are critical if the Pattern Book is going to shift the dial on construction starts and completions.
"The most recent ABS data showed quarterly completions fell from 10,336 to 9,638, and commencements dropped from 12,772 to 11,112. Those numbers spell it out – we still need the faster, clearer decisions flagged in the broader reform package if we're going to lift approvals, drive commencements and claw back the lag in completions."
Ms Hugo said the Property Council would continue working with Government Architect NSW to make sure the digital platform and guidance tools were practical for architects, builders and certifiers.
"This is a significant opportunity to normalise well-designed, medium-density housing in the places where people want to live," she said.
