The NSW Government is injecting significant funding into regional areas to accelerate housing development and infrastructure upgrades. This multi-million dollar investment aims to unlock thousands of new homes, support local councils in planning and development, and foster sustainable growth across the state’s regional communities.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Over $68,000 new homes are targeted across regional NSW.
- Significant investment in strategic planning funds for regional councils.
- Specific projects in Nowra and East Lismore are set to deliver hundreds of new homes, including affordable and social housing.
- Funding aims to address housing supply pressures and support growing regional populations.
BOOSTING REGIONAL HOUSING SUPPLY
The NSW Government is committed to increasing housing availability in regional areas through substantial financial backing. A $3.8 million investment from the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund (RHSPF) will assist 20 regional councils in expediting critical planning work necessary for the creation of over 68,000 new homes. This funding supports technical studies, policy frameworks, local housing strategies, and infrastructure servicing plans, enabling councils to better manage sustainable growth and meet infrastructure demands.
TRANSFORMING NOWRA’S FUTURE
In Nowra, a bold vision is unfolding to revitalise the CBD and riverfront precinct, promising significant economic and social transformation. The release of the Nowra City Centre Strategic Roadmap and associated rezoning proposals for the riverfront are set to unlock more than 900 new homes, including affordable and social housing options. The Mandalay Sub-Precinct rezoning, led by Homes NSW, aims to deliver approximately 537 dwellings, with at least 30 per cent dedicated to social or affordable housing. The Nowra Riverfront Precinct proposal could enable up to 377 new homes, incorporating a two per cent affordable housing requirement and allowing for increased building heights to activate the riverfront with new cafes and restaurants.
EAST LISMORE’S RESILIENT COMMUNITY
Plans for Stage 1 of East Lismore’s future community are underway, aiming to deliver around 100 affordable housing options, including terraces and low-rise apartments. This project, a partnership between Landcom and the NSW Reconstruction Authority, is part of a larger goal to create a sustainable community of at least 400 dwellings. The development prioritises flood-impacted residents, offering them first access to new land and homes. This initiative is a key component of the Resilient Lands Program, designed to provide safer housing options and guide development away from future flood risks.
FURTHER INVESTMENT IN REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE
An additional $23.9 million has been allocated to further accelerate housing delivery in regional NSW. This package includes up to $20.9 million for the Low Cost Loans Initiative, helping councils fund essential infrastructure like roads and parks, and up to $3 million in grants for the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund to support planning projects that enhance housing affordability. These programs aim to ensure that new homes are supported by necessary infrastructure, addressing the housing supply pressures impacting regional communities and supporting the state’s target of delivering 55,000 homes in regional NSW by 2029.
SOURCES
- $3.8 million to fast-track more than 68,000 new homes across regional NSW, NSW Government.
- Council welcomes planning proposals for growth in Nowra, Shoalhaven City Council.
- Plans released for Stage 1 of East Lismore’s 400-home future community, NSW Government.
- Bold vision to transform Nowra’s CBD and riverfront precinct, NSW Government.
- $23.9 million boost to fast-track housing in regional NSW, NSW Government.