Department of Planning and Environment Frequently asked questions
© State of New South Wales through Department of Planning and Environment 2022. Information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing, October 2022 and is subject to change. For more information, please visit dpie.nsw.gov.au/copyright.
Planning Proposal Support Program
This document answers frequently asked questions about the Planning Proposal Support Program, one of the initiatives of the Unblocking Homes Program to support councils move the backlog of planning proposals to
unblock delivery of tens of thousands of homes stuck in the planning system.
What is the Planning Proposal Support Program?
A program that provides help for councils to identify and progress large and complex planning proposals ‘stuck’ in the system, that have the potential to significantly increase the supply of new housing.
Planning Proposal Support is part of the Unblocking Homes Program, an $11.5 million (for the 2022/23 Financial Year) coordinated package of initiatives to boost resourcing for councils to help progress the backlog of planning proposals and development applications to help drive the supply of new houses needed in the state over the next 4 years.
Why is the Department offering support for planning proposals?
Providing a sufficient housing supply to meet the needs of NSW’s growing communities is a key priority for the NSW Government as reflected in the Premier’s Priorities and the NSW 2022-23 Budget. Councils play a critical role in helping to plan for and support the delivery of these homes.
Through our own data and what we’ve heard directly from councils, we know that many LGAs are experiencing challenges in finding and retaining planning staff to process the large amounts of assessments in the planning system that have the potential to unlock tens of thousands of new homes.
There are planning proposals in the system that have the potential to significantly contribute to housing supply with additional support and intervention.
What support is available for identified projects?
The type of support provided will be determined based on consultation with council. In general, the program offers the following types of assistance:
geographic information systems / mapping support,
technical reports including submissions summaries, and
policy advice or support to resolve or address feedback from agencies.
Can I nominate a planning proposal for the program?
No. The Department will work with councils to identify planning proposals that will be offered support . The Department will not be accepting nominations from proponents.
Department of Planning and Environment Frequently asked questions
© State of New South Wales through Department of Planning and Environment 2022. Information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing, October 2022 and is subject to change. For more information, please visit dpie.nsw.gov.au/copyright.
Which councils are involved in the program?
The department have identified planning proposals that may benefit from additional support in the following LGAs:
Bayside
Blacktown
Canada Bay
Central Coast
Inner West
Shoalhaven
Willoughby
Wollongong
When might a planning proposal be called in?
The department will work with councils to identify the right level of support for each planning proposal including offering case management, engaging consultants to prepare technical reports or studies, and negotiating with state agencies to resolve issues or expedite concurrence matters.
In limited circumstances, where department support has not progressed the planning proposal, the department is better placed to progress a project to its conclusion, or councils request that project be ‘called in, the department can progress the planning proposal and the Secretary will become the plan making authority.
How can I find out more on the Planning Proposal Support Program?
• Visit the Planning Proposal Support Program website for details and the Unblocking Homes website for more details on the suite of programs and the relevant contacts for each.
• Contact the team via email: [email protected].
