The NSW government is making a significant push to address the state’s housing crisis, unveiling ambitious net-zero housing plans and celebrating record construction figures. These initiatives aim to boost housing supply while promoting sustainable living and reducing energy costs for residents.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- NSW records its highest number of homes under construction in seven years, with over 79,300 properties currently being built.
- The state government has set new housing targets for 43 councils, aiming to build 377,000 new homes by 2029.
- A new net-zero display home showcases sustainable building practices that can be implemented at scale.
- Councils meeting housing targets will receive additional funding for community infrastructure.
NET ZERO HOUSING INITIATIVES
The NSW government is championing sustainable housing through initiatives like the Panorama development in North Wilton. This project, overseen by Landcom, features a net-zero display home designed to offset its annual carbon emissions using renewable energy. The home is fully electric, powered by rooftop solar and batteries, and incorporates energy-efficient features such as airtight doors, heat recovery ventilation, and double-glazed windows.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, highlighted that these sustainable features are becoming accessible for large-scale developments and can lead to significant annual savings for homeowners on energy and water bills. Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe, added that such homes empower residents to "be their own power station."
RECORD CONSTRUCTION FIGURES
Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that NSW is leading the nation in housing construction. The state has achieved its highest number of homes under construction in seven years, with over 79,300 properties currently being built. Furthermore, NSW recorded its highest quarter for housing completions in six years, with a 7.2 per cent increase compared to the previous year. New home commencements are also on the rise, marking the highest quarter since September 2021.
Minister Scully attributed these positive trends to the government’s "nation-leading reforms and initiatives," including landmark planning legislation, the Transport Oriented Development program, and the Low and Mid-rise Housing policy. These reforms aim to streamline the building process and increase housing supply.
HOUSING TARGETS AND COUNCIL INCENTIVES
To meet its obligations under the national housing accord, NSW must build 377,000 new homes by 2029. The government has established updated housing targets for 43 local councils, with a significant portion allocated to Sydney’s local government areas and the remainder for regional NSW. Approximately 82% of new homes are planned for established "brownfield" areas, with 18% in undeveloped "greenfield" locations.
To encourage councils to meet these ambitious targets, the NSW government has introduced a $200 million incentive scheme. Councils that achieve key milestones in housing delivery will receive additional funding for local infrastructure such as sporting facilities, parks, and road maintenance. A "league table" will also be released to compare planning performance across different areas.