NSW’s Fast-Track SSD Housing Assessment: What Developers Need to Know

The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has today released updated guidelines to fast-track State Significant Development (SSD) housing applications, with a target of completing assessments within 275 days.

Key features the department is taking to achieve faster assessments include:

• Mandatory scoping meetings to pinpoint issues early
• SEARs issued within 7 days
• Dedicated housing assessment teams
• Improved guidance for better applications
• Fewer RFIs thanks to improved early engagement

Eligible Development Types

Residential projects such as in-fill affordable housing, build-to-rent, seniors housing, public authority housing, accelerated TOD precincts, and projects under the HDA Pathway may now qualify for faster assessments.

Why This Matters

Previously, fast-track processes were limited to affordable housing and certain public authority developments. The expanded scope now opens the door for more residential projects to benefit from faster, more certain assessment timeframes—a welcome move in the current housing market.

How Willowtree supports SSD applications

Our team specialises in navigating SSD pathways. We can help with:

• Confirming eligibility for fast tracked SSD assessment
• Arranging early engagement and scoping meetings
• Preparing robust, fast-track ready submissions
• Proactively resolving issues with planning authorities

For more information on the updated guidelines visit their website here: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/housing/faster-assessments-for-state-significant-development-housing-applications

If you’d like to know whether your development could be eligible for fast-tracking, contact the Willowtree team today.