New planning rules to fast track low-rise and mid-rise housing

The Minns government is confronting the housing crisis with bold reforms to create tens of thousands of new, well-located, low-rise and mid-rise homes.

The government is announcing changes that will fast-track a greater diversity of homes like residential flat buildings of 3 to 6 storeys, terraces, townhouses, duplexes and smaller 1-storey to 2-storey apartment blocks in suburbs where they are not currently allowed.

The reforms create capacity for industry to deliver up to an estimated 112,000 new homes across the Greater Sydney region, Hunter, Central Coast and Illawarra.

This represents 30% of the number of homes NSW needs to meet under its Housing Accord target of 377,000 new homes by 2029.

Currently, each local council has its own rules for what kind of homes can be built in their area. In many local government areas, these rules do not allow the types of homes that we need for the next generation, housing close to transport, infrastructure and social amenity.

In October the government identified a significant gap in the approval of density, with terraces and 1-storey to 2-storey unit blocks allowed under R2 zoning in only 2 of 32 Local Environmental Plans (LEPs) – that’s just 6% of the LEPs across Sydney.

R2 is a zone for land which is made up of low-density housing.

This ‘missing middle’ has meant that low-rise density has been ignored in the face of a growing housing crisis.

Additionally, 60% of R3 zones across Sydney (where multi-dwelling housing is appropriate and should be encouraged) presently prohibit residential flat buildings of any scale.

Details of the proposed changes include allowing:

  • dual occupancies (2 separate homes on a single lot), such as duplexes, in all R2 low-density residential zones across all of NSW.
  • terraces, townhouses and 2-storey apartment blocks near transport hubs and town centres in R2 low-density residential zones across the Greater Sydney region, Hunter, Central Coast and Illawarra (the Six Cities region).
  • mid-rise apartment blocks near transport hubs and town centres in R3 medium-density zones and appropriate employment zones. This will mean more housing just a short 10-minute walk (800m) from transport hubs, shops and amenities.

The government will amend a State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) to enact these changes while simultaneously encouraging councils to add these types of dwellings to their own planning rules.

If a local government’s planning rules match – or go further than – this new NSW Government policy, the state government changes will not apply.

The government has previously written to councils, asking them to review local policy settings to allow for more housing in low-density and medium-density zones across their local government area.

National Housing Accord targets were set at the National Cabinet with all 3 levels of government represented.

The plans will go on public exhibition for public feedback from next week.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Sydney is one of the least dense cities in the world but fewer than half of councils allow for low-rise and mid-rise residential buildings in areas zoned for such homes.

“We’re confronting a housing crisis so we need to change the way we plan for more housing, we can’t keep building out we need to create capacity for more infill, with more diverse types of homes.

“Diversity of housing allows people to stay in their communities and neighbourhoods through different stages of their life, with family and friends able to live nearby. More housing choice means more options for everyone – renters, families, empty nesters.

“Density done well means townhouses, apartments and terraces clustered near shops, high streets and parks.

“We already have great examples of these types of homes. Sydney has grown using these housing types. Look at homes in Wollstonecraft, Waverton, Erskineville, parts of Wollongong or Newcastle. They’re great places to live. We just need more of them.”

Red imported fire ants in South Murwillumbah update

Following the eradication of the 5 red imported fire ants nests at South Murwillumbah on the weekend, the NSW Government has been further implementing its fire ant plan by focusing on tracing, surveillance and educating local businesses and the community.

Detection dogs have been on location today inspecting local high-risk premises that are linked to materials that red imported fire ants like to nest and travel in such as soil, mulch, quarry products, potted plants and baled materials.

The on-ground teams from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) have also been in communication with those businesses within the 5km biosecurity control zone advising them of their biosecurity obligations under the emergency order.

The government is working with businesses to facilitate low-risk businesses to get back to normal as soon as possible. While assisting the high-risk businesses in evaluating their premises and materials so they can also get permits to start moving, with a strong understanding on how to do activities safely and eliminating any risks.

The NSW Government is working closely with the Tweed Shire Council and the national program that is led by Queensland, to ensure we’re keeping the community and key stakeholders updated and applying all available resources to the area.

A community information bus is now outside Tweed Shire Council Chambers (10-14 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah) for locals to obtain more information about what they can do to help stop the spread of these invasive pests.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“I urge everyone in the local area to check their premises, yards and paddocks for the red imported fire ants and then reporting any suspected sighting immediately.”

Residents and businesses can report any suspicious ant activity to 1800 680 244launch or by visiting the Department of Primary Industrieslaunch.

Background

Fire ants are dark reddish-brown with a darker black-brown abdomen and range in size from 2 to 6mm long. 

Although they can look similar to other ants, their ant nests are distinctive with mounds of loose, crumbly or fluffy looking soil with a honeycomb appearance, up to 40cm high, with no obvious entrance holes.

Red imported fire ants can damage electrical and agricultural equipment, sting people causing allergic reactions, sting pets and livestock, kill native plants and animals, and also damage ecosystems beyond repair.

Labor’s lazy approach to housing reform not right for New South Wales

The NSW Opposition supports measures, including increased density, to deliver the state’s ambitious housing targets – but they must be done right and in partnership with local communities.
 
We know that a one-size-fits-all all approach isn’t the right approach. It’s lazy and ill-thought-through policy that shows the Minns Labor Government aren’t interested in putting in the hard work in to deliver on their housing targets.
 
Despite their offer of bipartisanship to help address the housing crisis, the Government has shown they’re more willing to tell local communities to “get out of the way” than in working constructively with the Opposition or with local councils.
 
The Government has failed to:

  • release new housing targets for local councils,
  • allow local councils the opportunity to amend local planning laws to meet and exceed new targets, and
  • address demand-side pressures on housing.

Chris Minns says that he’s willing to work constructively on this issue – but has failed to do so.
 
The Opposition is ready and willing to work with the Government, having presenting policy options including incentivising local councils to meet and exceed their housing targets and addressing immigration and population growth to take the pressure off rents and house prices.
 
The Opposition will stand with local communities as we work to address demand and supply constraints on housing – and meet our state’s housing targets.
 
The Government must require councils to meet local housing targets and may ultimately have to impose planning controls on local communities to get this done. However, in the first instance the Government should give communities a chance to formulate local controls, but it hasn’t bothered to do so. Communities shouldn’t pay the price for Chris Minns and Labor’s lazy policy-making.

Here comes the call for treaty

One Nation supporters have seen it all before – despite overwhelming support in the Australian community for one thing, Labor, the Greens, academics and activists are determined to do the opposite. 

This is the case with immigration. With climate change ideology. With foreign aid. And, of course, with an indigenous treaty. 

Black activist and former Greens senator Lidia Thorpe put her contempt for the referendum result on full display this week, demanding the Albanese government proceed with a treaty and ‘truth-telling’ – code for rewriting Australian history to maximise financial settlements funded by non-indigenous taxpayers. 

Pauline Hanson had other ideas. One Nation, with amazing support from its supporters and volunteers, played a prominent role in the no campaign to help secure the 60% no vote in Australia and the 69% no vote Queensland. 

Australia, she said in Parliament this week, voted overwhelmingly not just to reject the voice but also the demands in the Uluru Statement for a treaty and a truth-telling commision. 

“Australians understood the voice was a crucial first step towards a treaty, and they knocked it back. They understood the voice, treaty and ‘truth-telling’ would divide this country by race, and they knocked them back. 

Appointment of new Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs

I am pleased to announce the Governor‑General has accepted my recommendation to appoint Stephanie Foster as Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs.

Ms Foster has had an extensive career in the Australian Public Service, including as acting Secretary and Associate Secretary of Home Affairs, and Deputy Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Ms Foster has held other senior positions in the APS, including at the Australian Public Service Commission, the Department of Infrastructure and the Department of Defence.

Ms Foster has well-established relationships across the APS and significant policy experience, which make her eminently suitable to the role of Secretary.

Ms Foster’s five‑year appointment will commence today.

Man charged over alleged sexual touching – Hunter Valley

A man has been charged after a sexual touching incident in the Hunter Valley region.

About 12.50am on Sunday 26 November 2023, police were called to Waverley Street, Scone, following reports a woman had been assaulted.

Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District were told an 18-year-old woman had been followed and assaulted by a man before she was able to escape and run home.

Following extensive inquiries, a search warrant was executed at a home on St Aubins Street, Scone, about 12pm today (Tuesday 28 November 2023).

During the search, several items were seized by investigators for forensic analysis.

A 26-year-old man was arrested and taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where he was charged with sexual touching, common assault, choking and intimidation.

He was refused bail to appear at Singleton Local Court tomorrow (Wednesday 29 November 2023).

DUTTON’S BACKSEAT DRIVING CONTINUES

Labor’s attempts to amend last week’s rushed and shoddy anti-refugee legislation with more rushed and shoddy anti-refugee legislation is just further proof that Peter Dutton is running the show, the Greens say.

“Labor has clearly learned nothing from last week. They let Dutton pressure them into trampling refugee rights with hasty and xenophobic legislation, and here they go again,” Greens Immigration and Citizenship spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“They may as well re-appoint Peter Dutton as Minister for Home Affairs and be done with it.”

“This isn’t leadership; it’s a betrayal of principles in the face of political pressure.”

“They have completely folded in the face of a right wing scare campaign.”

“Again we see one group of people in our country treated more harshly than another just because they are not citizens.”

“Mandatory sentences are contrary to good governance and Labor’s own policy platform.”

“For Labor to introduce them today just shows that they are only interested in appeasing the far right.”

“Labor’s xenophobia is perpetuating a cycle of criminalisation and punitive control over refugees and migrants, many of whom have committed no crime whatsoever.”

“To the Teals, Mr Wilkie and Senator Pocock: we ask you to this time stand with us for refugee rights instead of collapsing again in the face of the political duopoly’s confected fear campaign.”

LACK OF DETAIL IN JSCEM REPORT LEAVES DOOR OPEN FOR TWO PARTY STITCH UP

Greens leader in the Senate and spokesperson on democracy Senator Larissa Waters said:

“All year Labor has used the JSCEM process as an excuse for rejecting independent and Greens private members’ bills for electoral reform on topics like truth in political advertising, donation reform and transparency, and on-the-day enrolment.

“And yet here we are, with the final JSCEM report delivered, and still zero detail on how Labor plans to work with the parliament to deliver improved transparency and integrity to our elections. 

“The Greens welcome the proposal for more Senate seats for the territories, but it is very concerning to see no further progress made on donations, transparency or tackling misinformation in today’s report. 

“If Labor is genuine about electoral reform to deal with misinformation, with big spenders like Clive Palmer, and with dark money, they’d be consulting and working with the crossbench instead of talking about ‘bipartisan approaches’.

“Any proposal that means that if you’re already elected you get a hefty envelope full of cash, but if you’re trying to get elected, your donations are heavily restricted is not a reform, it’s a rort. 

“Propping up the dying two party system is not electoral reform, it’s a rort.

“After the Greens’ landslide outcome at the last election, and the victories of independents in metropolitan Liberal seats, the political class is feeling the heat.

“Labor and the Liberals’ vote is going backwards. The combined total of the two party vote in Australia has dropped from 98% of the vote in 1951, on a steady downward trend, to 68% at the last election.

“The Greens and independents stand ready to pass real democratic reforms with the Government, rather than the government doing a dirty deal with the Liberals that locks in the two party system.”

BACKGROUND
Report: Conduct of the 2022 federal election and other matters – Parliament of Australia (aph.gov.au)

Greens additional comments: Additional comments by the Australian Greens – Parliament of Australia (aph.gov.au)

TL;DR – The Juice Media version: https://youtu.be/N3WTlyuhDs0

CURRICULUM SIDESHOW A DISTRACTION FROM PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING CRISIS

The Greens say curriculum debates are a sideshow which distracts policymakers from the school funding crisis, and that the key to ending school inequality is ensuring every child can access a well-resourced and inclusive public school.

Greens spokesperson on Education (Primary & Secondary), Senator Penny Allman-Payne said:

“Blaming educational inequality on curriculum while continuing to underfund our public schools is a distraction that parents, carers and teachers will see straight through.

“Teachers are overworked and leaving the profession; parents and teachers are dipping into their own pockets to pay for classroom supplies; and thousands of students can’t attend class because their schools don’t have the resources to adequately support them.

“The idea that tweaking the curriculum would magically reverse the decades of neglect of our public school system is a technocratic fantasy that no serious person can possibly believe.

“This is a game the right’s culture warriors have been playing for years. They’re desperate to undermine the public system, and they’ll blame declining performance and disengagement on everything but the actual cause: persistent underfunding.

“It’s a cynical shell game that helps prop up the private system and entrench elite privilege at the expense of millions of the most disadvantaged kids in the country.

“To even have a chance of reversing educational inequality in Australia, every public school must be funded to 100% of the Schooling Resource Standard by the start of the next National School Reform Agreement, in January 2025.”

LABOR VOTES FOR MORE GAS AS BROKEN GAS CODE NARROWLY PASSES SENATE

In the Senate this afternoon Labor voted to open new gas fields, with its gas code narrowly avoiding a Senate defeat by 16 votes to 21.

Greens Leader Adam Bandt MP said:

“Labor has voted to open new gas fields.

“In the middle of a climate crisis, Labor is gaslighting the public, pretending to take climate action while opening new coal and gas mines.

“Gas is as dirty as coal, and every new Labor gas development puts us on track for an unliveable climate future.

“Labor’s gas code gives big corporations a financial incentive to open new gas fields.

“There’s plenty of gas in Australia to get us through the transition, but Labor is peddling Morrison-era spin that new gas fields are the only answer.

“Labor’s backing for more coal and gas is now clear. Labor backs the Santos’ Narrabri gas project, the Beetaloo climate bomb and Woodside’s Burrup Hub disaster, which contain decades worth of pollution and put a safer climate further out of reach.

“We’re up for regulating the gas corporations and ensuring gas isn’t sent offshore while Australian business transitions, but the experts and climate scientists make it clear that there is no room for new coal or gas if we’re to have any chance of meeting climate targets.