SSD pathway changes

On Friday 13th December, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) announced changes to the SSD infill affordable housing pathway aimed at speeding up the approvals process.

Specifically, if a Council objects to an SSD project for in-fill affordable housing, the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) will no longer be the designated consent authority.

However, there are some exceptions to this, including “highly contentious projects” (which is not defined, so this aspect will need to be closely monitored) and projects with declared political donations. Projects that have already been referred to the IPC will also continue through that process.

These changes will be implemented through an amendment to section 2.7 of the Planning Systems SEPP.

In addition, it has also been announced that from 13 December 2024, the following development types within the City if Sydney LGA are no longer considered SSD:

- Chemical, manufacturing and related industries

- Other manufacturing industries

- Warehouses or distribution centres

- Cultural, recreation and tourist facilities (includes hotels/motels)

- Hospitals, medical centres and health research facilities

- Data centres

- Seniors Housing

Under the transitional arrangements, projects will remain SSD if they received SEARs within two years prior to 13 December 2024 and the DA is lodged within two years after the date of the SEARs.

If you required further information on how these changes may affect your site/s, please contact us at admin@keylan.com.au. We have extensive experience with SSD applications and great contacts at the Department.

Link to the ministerial release is available here – https://www.nsw.gov.au/ministerial-releases/more-affordable-homes-to-be-delivered-faster

Affordable housing project in the City of Sydney (Source: DKO)