The Minns Labor Government is actively progressing its Building Homes for NSW program by identifying more properties for development, announcing 30 new sites that will support the construction of around 1,600 new homes.
Land Audit Sites
Through a recent property audit, the Government has pinpointed 14 sites designated for the construction of approximately 1,400 homes. Among today's announcements are two sites located in Box Hill and Riverstone, which are set to be transferred to Homes NSW for the potential development of nearly 50 social and affordable homes, along with more than 35 market rate homes.
Additionally, nine sites throughout Sydney and three in regional NSW have been earmarked for upcoming housing projects, with plans for Landcom or private sector partnerships to facilitate the development of over 1,300 market and affordable homes.
The identified Sydney sites consist of unused government land in three distinct locations at Rouse Hill, as well as in Edmondson Park, Stanmore, Earlwood, North Sydney, Chippendale, and Fairfield. The three regional sites are situated in Broadmeadow, Morisset, and Orange.
Details regarding the final housing development approach on these sites, including the quantity and variety of housing options, will be established after thorough due diligence and the necessary planning and regulatory approvals.
This announcement follows the NSW Government's earlier confirmation of 14 additional sites across Sydney and regional areas that will also be handed over to housing delivery agencies.
Homes NSW Sites
Besides the properties identified through the audit, construction will soon begin on 194 new social homes across 16 additional sites owned by Homes NSW. These regions include Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle, the Northern Rivers, and the Riverina, with work on the first sites anticipated to start by the end of the year.
The Building Homes for NSW program aims to deliver up to 30,000 homes on government-owned sites, including 8,400 new public housing units, with a focus on assisting women and children escaping violence. For further details, visit Building Homes for NSW.
The property audit is an essential component of the Building Homes for NSW program. More information about the audit can be found at NSW Government Property Audit for Housing.
Statements from Officials
Premier Chris Minns emphasized that housing affordability and availability are significant challenges for the people of NSW. He noted, “Our property audit is focused on ensuring that unused or excess government land is made available for further housing developments. Today’s announcement showcases our dedication to providing housing options for renters, first-time buyers, and the most vulnerable community members.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully highlighted the Government's efforts to identify underutilized land for housing. He stated, “The property audit plays a pivotal role in our strategy to increase housing availability, complemented by reforms in the NSW planning system and investment in Landcom to boost housing delivery.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper remarked, “Our ongoing property audit has systematically assessed government land, and we are delighted to announce 28 sites that can provide over 3,000 residential units, helping to combat the housing crisis in NSW.”
Minister for Housing and Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson mentioned the importance of adding more social and affordable homes. “We are committed to revitalizing our housing system, and the two Sydney sites identified for social housing are strategically located near public transport and essential services, resulting in over 250 new homes for those in the greatest need.”