Until recently, building a granny flat, dual occupancy or two-storey family home in New South Wales often meant navigating a lengthy council approval process, even for relatively straightforward projects. However, that could soon change. The NSW Government is considering significant planning reforms designed to create faster and more consistent approval pathways for low-rise housing, following public consultation on its Low-Rise Housing and Targeted Assessment Discussion Paper, which was exhibited from 14 May to 24 June 2026. The feedback is now being reviewed to help shape future planning reforms.
The proposed changes recognise that one and two-storey residential developments—including detached homes, dual occupancies, terraces and multi-dwelling housing—are generally low-impact developments, yet they account for around 50% of all development applications across NSW. Under the current system, even a minor variation from complying development standards can require a full Development Application (DA), increasing approval timeframes and project costs.
To address this, the NSW Government has proposed a new Targeted Assessment Pathway. This streamlined approval process would sit between a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) and a traditional DA, allowing councils to assess only those aspects requiring merit consideration, while the remaining elements would be assessed against standardised planning controls. The Government is targeting an assessment timeframe of 50 days or less for eligible projects, significantly reducing approval delays.
What the Low-Rise Reforms Could Achieve
| Proposed Reform | Potential Benefit |
| Targeted Assessment Pathway | Faster approvals for eligible low-rise developments. |
| Statewide Low-Rise Housing Code | Greater consistency across NSW councils. |
| Consolidated Planning Controls | Simpler approval requirements in one central framework. |
| Clear Assessment Objectives | More transparent assessment of design variations. |
| Standardised Definitions | Easier navigation of planning rules for owners and developers. |
| Faster Approval Timeframes | Eligible projects may be assessed within approximately 50 days. |
For homeowners and developers, time is money. Faster approvals can reduce holding costs, improve financing outcomes and bring projects to market sooner. Whether you’re planning a duplex, terrace development or a new family home, understanding these evolving planning pathways before purchasing land could provide a significant commercial advantage.
Although the reforms are still progressing through the Government’s consultation process, they demonstrate a clear commitment to simplifying the planning system and increasing housing supply across New South Wales. Buyers considering development opportunities should carefully review zoning, easements, planning restrictions and approval pathways before signing a contract, particularly while these changes continue to evolve.
Flash Conveyancing Advice
If you’re buying a property with future development potential, don’t rely solely on today’s planning rules. Before exchanging contracts, ask your conveyancer to review the zoning, title restrictions and any upcoming planning reforms that could affect your property. A little planning today could save months of delays tomorrow.
Julian and Renee at Flash Conveyancing are specialists in property transactions throughout New South Wales. With extensive experience across the Blacktown, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, The Hills, Hornsby and Parramatta council areas, they combine practical legal knowledge with personalised service to help clients navigate changing planning laws and property regulations.
Whether you’re buying, selling or transferring property in Acacia Gardens, Angus, Arndell Park, Blacktown, Colebee, Glendenning, Glenwood, Grantham Farm, Kellyville Ridge, Kings Langley, Marsden Park, Melonba, Oakhurst, Parklea, Quakers Hill, Riverstone, Schofields, Seven Hills, Stanhope Gardens, Tallawong, The Ponds, Baulkham Hills, Beaumont Hills, Bella Vista, Castle Hill, Kellyville, Kenthurst, North Rocks, Northmead, Rouse Hill, Vineyard, Windsor, Annangrove, Box Hill, Cattai, Dural, Gables, Galston, Glenhaven, Glenorie, Maraylya, Middle Dural, Nelson, North Kellyville, Norwest, Winston Hills, Sydney, Newcastle or Wollongong, Julian and Renee provide practical advice, careful legal guidance and proactive support to help ensure your property transaction is efficient, compliant and well positioned for future opportunities.
