Understanding NSW’s Updated Crown Development Application Provisions
In May 2025, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure released Planning Circular PS 25-002, updating the framework for Crown development application processes in NSW under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). This circular replaces the previous Circular D6 and provides guidance for councils, applicants, and practitioners on the provisions applicable […]
NSW 2025–26 Budget: What It Means for Planning Professionals and the Industry
The newly released NSW Budget 2025 signals a continued push to deliver more, faster, and with better-resourced planning systems to support them. Here is Meliora’s snapshot: Planning System Reforms & Funding $253.7 million investment to bolster the State’s planning system, including assessing more development applications and delivering additional State-led rezonings. $20.4 million allocated to improve […]
Important Update for Developers in the Hunter Region
Hunter Water has announced that from 1 July 2025, developer charges will increase from 25% to 50% as part of the NSW Government’s four-year phased reintroduction of full developer servicing charges.This increase will apply to:– Existing applications not completed by 30 June 2025, and– All new applications lodged from 1 July 2025 onward. If you’re […]
RECENT INDUSTRY UPDATES
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will be making minor changes to the NSW Planning Portal development application form. Starting May 30, 2025, the application form will undergo minor changes aimed at simplifying the submission process. If your application is currently ‘In Progress’ and not yet submitted to a council for assessment, please note […]
Planning for Bushfire Protection Addendum 2025: What You Need to Know
This week, the 2025 Addendum to Planning for Bush Fire Protection (PBP) has officially taken legislative effect in New South Wales — and it’s particularly relevant for anyone involved in the design and construction of school buildings. Whether you’re a developer, educational provider or architect, it’s essential to understand the updates and how they may […]
