The property landscape of New South Wales is experiencing a quiet revolution that many homeowners remain completely unaware of. Mark Novak and Josh Wapshott delve into the game-changing planning reforms introduced by the Minns government affecting 170 town centres across the state, creating unprecedented development opportunities that could transform neighborhoods and property values virtually overnight.
We unpack how the state government has effectively bypassed local council restrictions by switching off certain density controls, dramatically increasing allowable building heights from 8.5 to 17.5 metres, and permitting dual occupancies and unit blocks in areas previously restricted. Properties within 400 metres of designated town centres can now accommodate developments up to six storeys high, while those within 800 metres qualify for terrace housing on blocks as small as 450 square metres – a seismic shift for property development potential across the Northern Beaches and beyond.
The conversation explores not just the planning changes themselves but the practical economic considerations that will determine their impact. Construction costs, market demand, and the potential for oversupply all factor into whether these new development opportunities will prove financially viable. For property owners wondering if these changes affect them, we provide a simple way to determine eligibility: text "REZONE" to 0460 111 111 for a three-step process to identify your property's development potential. Whether you're considering developing your own property or concerned about changes to your neighborhood, understanding these reforms is essential for anyone with an interest in NSW property.