UPDATE: Proposed reforms to expedite housing approvals in New South Wales (NSW) are raising immediate concerns over environmental and corruption risks. The contentious bill will be debated in the NSW Parliament this Wednesday, with significant amendments expected.
The government’s plan aims to streamline a “confused” planning system to increase housing availability in Australia’s most expensive property market. However, environmental advocates fear the fast-tracking process could extend to mining applications and renewable energy projects, igniting tensions in regional areas.
Opposition Leader Mark Speakman has already indicated plans for multiple amendments, including enhanced oversight of the Housing Delivery Authority, a newly formed panel that allows for bypassing local council approvals. “Our amendments are practical, responsible, and aimed at cutting red tape while keeping government accountable,” Speakman stated earlier today.
Concerns have also been voiced by Nationals leader Dugald Saunders, who urged the government for clearer assurances on non-housing approvals. “There are ongoing issues and angst across regional NSW caused by the proliferation of renewables and the cumulative impact the botched rollout is having on our communities,” he expressed.
In a recent statement, Planning Minister Paul Scully emphasized the need for swift housing approvals, stating, “We need to make sure these new homes are well designed and well built, and we need to approve them and build them as quickly as possible.” However, critics argue that the proposed reforms risk exacerbating existing issues.
The bill seeks to solidify the Housing Delivery Authority in legislation, centralize decision-making across government agencies, and permit minor variations without a full development application. Yet, a briefing note from the Environmental Defenders Office warns that these significant changes could heighten environmental impacts and foster corruption.
“When changes like this are conceived in a rush and pursued without broad consultation, there are likely to be unintended consequences,” the legal non-profit stated, highlighting the potential dangers of hastily approved reforms.
Greens MP Sue Higginson has called for a parliamentary inquiry and formal advice from the Independent Commission Against Corruption, citing over 30 reports that have previously exposed corruption within the planning system since the commission’s inception in 1989.
Higginson warned that the proposed bill could undermine essential environmental protections, granting extensive power to ministers without appropriate oversight. “That is exactly the kind of structure that has enabled corruption in NSW planning before, and it is happening again,” she cautioned.
As the debate unfolds in the NSW Parliament, stakeholders from various sectors are watching closely. The outcome could shape the future of housing developments and environmental integrity in one of Australia’s most critical markets. Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
