The Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) has approved 15 more projects as State Significant Developments (SSD). This latest round follows two earlier assessments, bringing the total number of approved projects to 44.
At the 7 March 2025 briefing, the HDA reviewed 32 applications. Of these, 15 projects received SSD status, adding over 7,000 new homes across NSW. The first two rounds had approved 30 projects, with a total potential of 22,000 homes.
Expanding Housing Supply Across NSW
The 15 newly approved projects include mixed-use precincts, build-to-rent housing, and high-density residential developments. These projects will bypass local council approvals and proceed through the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure.
Among the key approvals is a 200-unit build-to-rent development in St Peters that includes affordable housing and retail spaces. In Edgecliff, a 320-unit mixed-use project will add housing, commercial floor space, and public spaces. Erskineville will see a 160-unit project that reuses a heritage building for commercial purposes.
Brookvale’s Westfield redevelopment will feature 1,500 apartments, retail, and transport facilities. A Leppington precinct will provide 1,554 apartments, including 270 affordable units, commercial spaces, and open areas. Other major projects in Campsie, Strathfield South, and Five Dock will also boost housing supply in key locations.
These projects build on earlier approvals. The HDA backed 12 projects in its first round and fast-tracked 18 more in the second. Each stage brings NSW closer to its housing supply targets.
Challenges and Deferred Applications
The HDA did not approve all applications. Some did not align with state planning priorities or required further review.
A 30-storey mixed-use project in Canterbury was rejected due to existing local planning strategies. Several North Sydney projects were deferred to ensure they meet planning policies and affordable housing requirements. A Lochinvar project was not approved as it did not meet housing demand criteria.
The HDA ensures that only well-planned, viable projects move forward.
Fast-Tracking Housing Growth in NSW
The HDA prioritises projects that can start quickly. Developers must submit planning applications within nine months and begin construction within 12 months.
By bypassing local council approvals, the process reduces delays and speeds up housing delivery. The Minns Government’s broader housing strategy includes:
- The largest rezoning in NSW history for transport hubs and shopping centres
- $200 million in financial incentives for councils with fast-tracked approvals
- $450 million for affordable housing for essential workers like nurses and teachers
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully emphasised the urgency of the approvals.
“These projects could deliver 7,000 new homes, including affordable housing. Since the first briefing, I have approved projects that could add more than 22,000 dwellings. Developers now have nine months to submit plans and must start construction within 12 months. The need for housing is too urgent to delay.”
What Happens Next?
With SSD status granted, developers will now finalise planning applications for assessment by the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure. Those not recommended for SSD may still seek local council approvals or alternative pathways.
The third round of approvals reinforces NSW’s commitment to expanding housing supply. With 44 State Significant Developments now approved, the HDA continues to drive fast, efficient planning.
For details on previous approvals, read:
Housing Delivery Authority Backs 12 Major Developments in NSW
NSW Fast-Tracks 18 More Housing Projects in Round Two
For more information, visit the NSW Department Planning, Housing and Infrastructure website:
Housing Delivery Authority – NSW Planning
