It is now easier, cheaper and faster for homeowners to get approval for a new home or renovation in NSW following changes to the housing code. 

Minister for Planning and Housing, Anthony Roberts, said the new housing code is easy to read and will simplify the planning rules for homes approved under a fast-tracked complying development pathway. 

“The new code has a strong customer focus with planning rules that are clear, simple and easy to understand.

 “For the first time, the code contains easy to follow diagrams to better illustrate the building standards that must be met when building or renovating,” Mr Roberts said.

 “With this, the NSW Government is taking the frustration out of the planning system by continuing to cut red tape.

 “This new code will save homeowners time and money in constructing new homes and undertaking home renovations.”

 “Simplifying the code means people can build a new one or two storey home, add a bedroom or build a new carport without needing to be a planning expert or a lawyer to understand the rules”.

 Approvals for complying development can be issued within as little as 20 days, compared to 71 days on average for a development application and homeowners can save up to $15,000 when building a new home.

 Mr Roberts said that the new simplified housing code had the support of the building and certification industry.

 “The feedback from industry is that the original housing code was unnecessarily complicated and dense.”

 Other changes to the state policies for exempt and complying development will further simplify and improve these policies.

 The Department of Planning and Environment consulted on the proposed changes and considered feedback from residents, community groups, councils and industry.

 The new Housing Code will come into effect from 17 July 2017.

 To find out more and view the policy changes in full, visit http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/SimplifiedHousingCode