Reform momentum is starting to translate into a stronger pipeline and more certainty to unlock further homes across the region.
That’s according to Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director Nuatali Nelmes.
“The recent planning modifications, the new Homes for NSW 10-year strategy and national housing programs, including the Housing Australia Future Fund Facility (HAFFF), all offer both areas a clear path to deliver additional dwellings,” she said.
“That’s provided implementation stays flexible… and industry is a key partner.”
Her comments come ahead of a special Property Council event in Merewether on 31 October.
The forum will bring together government, community housing providers and private developers to discuss ways to accelerate local housing delivery.
“Our region is ready to build; and the reforms now on the books can help us move more quickly from approval to delivery, providing further diverse and affordable housing options for families, essential workers and people in need,” Ms Nelmes said.
“The immediate task is practical delivery.
“That means working shoulder-to-shoulder and staying focused on the goal with government, industry and community housing providers.”
Ms Nelmes said a flexible, region-sensitive rollout of the NSW Housing Pattern Book would be vital to lift supply in local town centres and close to jobs.
“We need to see mapping alignment between the low and mid-rise (LMR) housing policy, the Hunter Regional Plan 2041 growth centres and housing targets,” she explained.
“It’s important that major regional centres like Toronto, Broadmeadow and Jesmond can access the benefits the reforms offer.
“The Pattern Book can speed up well-designed LMR housing, too.
“But, it must work with local conditions in the Hunter and Central Coast.
“A bigger regional focus, via the HAFFF, is also a smart move.
“It would get more keys in doors in places like the Hunter and Central Coast without slowing city projects.”
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