The State Government will review feedback and test proposals received from more than 220 submissions to guide medium density development.
Earlier this year, industry groups, local governments and community members shared their views online and through a series of workshops on the draft medium density policy.
Submissions indicated broad support for options to improve design quality in residential developments up to four storeys that will also increase housing diversity and choice. Proposals for increased outdoor living areas in developments of greater density and the retention of tree canopy across our suburbs were also generally supported.
Requests were also received for additional consultation on key policy provisions and changes to the proposed implementation and transition timeline.
In response, the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage will undertake a detailed review and analysis of all submissions received, refine and test policy settings, engage key stakeholders and continue feasibility testing over the next 12 months.
We are targeting the finalisation of the code, the first half of next year - and its implementation by the second half of next year.
Consideration will also be given to recent changes to the National Construction Code that may need to be applied to the policy.
The draft planning policy is the latest in the McGowan Government's suite of Design WA policies to ensure design excellence is at the heart of all new developments to deliver lasting community benefits across the State.
With an ageing population, greater demand for housing affordability and more diversity in housing choice, the McGowan Government has prioritised finalising a new medium density policy as a key pillar of the next phase of planning reform.
For more information, visit https://www.dplh.wa.gov.au/medium-density
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Consultation with community and industry is a pivotal part of policy development to ensure we get the settings right to deliver lasting benefits and outcomes - that's why we recently asked the community what they want to see from the planning system with our new set of reforms.
"I am pleased with the level of support for this fresh approach to medium density development.
"This promises excellent outcomes for our built environment and doesn't repeat the same pattern of triplex or multi-unit density and loss of tree canopies we have seen across our suburbs over the past 20-to-30 years.
"We know the housing industry is under significant delivery pressure, so we will lengthen our delivery program and take this time to test proposals put forward from industry and the community to develop a policy that works for all users of the planning system.
"Over the coming years, this will guide the right balance of density across existing suburbs and in new METRONET communities, bringing vibrancy, diversity of housing and environmental benefits for future generations of Western Australians."
