The Territory Labor Government is providing opportunity for housing choice for Katherine residents.
A new proposed planning scheme amendment is on exhibition which would allow for the development of more than one dwelling on a lot within Zone LR (Low Density Residential) in Katherine.
Under the proposed changes, more than one dwelling will be allowed in Katherine East where the land is a minimum of 800m2 in size, is not affected by flooding, titled before 6 November 2015 and is not already developed with a dwelling-independent.
New developments will need to comply with other relevant development requirements for a dwelling-group, including building setbacks, provision of private open space, and car parking.
The greater density requirement will ensure development through the overlay will be compatible with the low density nature and established amenity of Zone LR.
In February 2022, the Bringing Land to Market: An Independent Review of the Land Development Processes, Land Under Development and Titled Land was released. The report, in part, outlines the complexity of the housing issue in Katherine and recommends a housing demand and supply study be commissioned to look at immediate, medium and long term accommodation needs for Katherine.
The proposed overlay is consistent with the strategic planning framework for Katherine and provides an opportunity to increase housing availability for residents.
The proposed amendment is currently open for public comment for the next 28 days, visit for here more information.
Quotes from Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler:
"The Territory Labor Government is planning for the future - and this means enabling diversity in residential housing development to provide additional housing in Katherine.
"We have been hearing the concerns of locals and the wider Territory regarding the lack of availability of residential homes in Katherine - this is why we are doing something about it.
"The land that meets this test is located in Katherine East, supporting NT Government initiatives to focus population growth in Katherine in areas in a flood free zone.
"The proposed amendment will not impact the ability of residential homes to occur in other areas of Katherine in accordance with the existing town planning zone and requirements of the NT Planning Scheme."
Northern Territory Government
