An independent report with recommendations for how the planning system can address housing supply and affordability in regional communities has been released by the NSW Government.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole welcomed the Regional Housing Taskforce's report, which was underpinned by five key recommendations and 15 actions.
"We set up the Taskforce to provide advice on how to address housing pressure in the bush, and I thank them for their swift and comprehensive response on an issue that is affecting so many regional communities," Mr Toole said.
"The report gives the NSW Government clear recommendations to consider how we can use the levers within the planning system to fast-track supply of shovel-ready land and deliver more homes for families across regional parts of the State."
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the Government would now consider the recommendations and provide a response later this year.
"We will consider each recommendation in detail to ensure our planning system allows for a steady supply of housing throughout regional communities," Mr Stokes said.
"The recommendations confirm there is no silver bullet solution and we must work in partnership with industry and and local councils to create more housing opportunities."
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the recommendations reflected the unique housing needs of regional communities.
"The pandemic has put new pressure on regional housing markets over the last year and I welcome the Taskforce's recommendations for how we can alleviate that pressure with innovative, driven solutions," Mrs Pavey said.
"The need for more temporary accommodation for seasonal workers is of particular concern in many communities and we will consider the Taskforce's advice on how we can work with councils to deliver this."
The report outlines five key recommendations for the NSW Government to consider, including:
- Support measures to bring forward a supply of 'development-ready' land;
- Increase the availability of affordable and diverse housing;
- Provide more certainty about where, when and what types of homes will be built;
- Investigate planning levers to facilitate the delivery of housing that meet short-term needs; and
- Improve monitoring of housing and policy outcomes, and demand indicators.
To view the recommendations report, visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/regional-housing.
