In response to the growing housing demand across New South Wales (NSW), the state government has established the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA). This strategic initiative aims to streamline the approval process for major residential developments, thereby speeding up the delivery of new homes to meet the needs of young people, families, and workers.
Purpose and Objectives
The HDA is tasked with creating and implementing a state-led approval pathway for significant residential projects.
Its primary objectives include:
- Identifying High-Yield Housing Proposals: Focusing on residential developments that offer substantial housing yields.
- Facilitating Swift Assessment and Construction: Prioritising compliant, large-scale housing projects capable of rapid commencement.
- Promoting Quality and Affordable Housing: Emphasising well-located developments with necessary infrastructure that contribute to affordable housing supply.
Complementing the State Significant Rezoning Policy: Providing a pathway for major housing proposals seeking concurrent rezoning.
Eligibility Criteria
Developers interested in submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the HDA should meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Project Value: Developments with an estimated development cost (EDC) exceeding $60 million in Greater Sydney and approximately $30 million in regional NSW.
- Housing Yield: Typically, projects with 100 or more homes in Greater Sydney and 40 or more homes in regional NSW.
These criteria are designed to ensure that the HDA focuses on substantial projects that can significantly contribute to housing supply.
Application Process
The application process for the HDA involves several key steps:
- Developers engage with the HDA to discuss project suitability and alignment with housing objectives.
- The developer completes and submits the EOI form, providing detailed information about the proposed development.
- The HDA evaluates the EOI against established criteria, considering factors such as housing yield, compliance, and contribution to affordable housing.
- If the proposal meets the criteria, the HDA recommends it for declaration as State Significant Development (SSD).
- Following the SSD declaration, developers can proceed with the formal development application process.
This streamlined process is designed to reduce delays and accelerate housing delivery.
Streamlined Decision-Making
To expedite approvals, the HDA has introduced a single set of Industry Specific Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) for all major residential developments. This approach standardises assessment requirements, ensuring consistency and efficiency in the evaluation process.
Impact on Housing Supply
The establishment of the HDA is a significant step towards addressing the housing shortage in NSW. By focusing on high-yield, well-located developments with enabling infrastructure, the HDA aims to deliver quality and affordable housing more rapidly. This initiative complements other state planning reforms, such as the Transport Oriented Development program and the Housing Taskforce, all working towards increasing housing supply and affordability.
Conclusion
The Housing Delivery Authority represents a proactive approach by the NSW government to meet the housing needs of its residents. By streamlining the approval process for major residential developments, the HDA is set to make a substantial contribution to the state’s housing supply, ensuring that more people have access to safe, secure, and affordable homes.
