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More than 105,000 homes are set to be fast-tracked across regional NSW following a major state government investment aimed at boosting housing supply and planning capacity.
Round three of the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund is set to deliver nearly $4.4 million to 24 councils, with grants of up to $250,000 each to support strategic planning initiatives. These include updating housing strategies, planning for infrastructure and essential services, and amending local environmental plans to facilitate diverse and affordable housing construction.
Key projects funded in Newcastle and the Central Coast align with the NSW government’s Transport Oriented Development reforms and Low and Mid-Rise Policy, both designed to increase housing supply near train stations and encourage varied housing types.
Other notable initiatives supported through this round include the South Orange Sewer Servicing Strategy, the Singleton planning control review, and the Narrabri Development Control Plan update.
In 2024, the Minns government established new housing targets to improve the balance of housing delivery across the state. Regional NSW received a target of 55,000 homes over five years and projects under this fund are expected to significantly support that goal.
More people are choosing to live in regional NSW, but rising prices and limited availability have made housing harder to access. Officials say funding local planning, housing and infrastructure projects is critical to building stronger, more liveable regional communities.
Funding from the first two rounds of the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund delivered $6.88 million to 36 projects. Key outcomes include the Laffing Waters Master Plan Precinct Contributions Plan in Bathurst, the West Dapto Town Centres Master Planning in Wollongong, and the Tamworth Regional Housing Strategy.
This initiative forms part of the Minns government’s broader vision to provide more homes and services so that young people, families and key workers can afford to live in the communities they choose.
Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, said: “By investing in planning today, we’re helping councils deliver the homes, parks, transport connections, and infrastructure communities need, and making sure young people and families can continue to build their futures in the regions.
“Good planning unlocks opportunity. Through this fund, we’re giving councils the tools to deliver better-designed, more liveable communities across regional NSW, close to transport, jobs and essential services.”
Tara Moriarty, Minister for Regional NSW, said the state government is making “real progress” in unlocking more homes across the regional areas of the states while providing councils with the support they need to plan for growth.
“This $4.4 million investment will fast-track over 105,000 homes and help ensure our growing regional communities have access to the housing, infrastructure and services they deserve.”
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