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“HIA has been calling for this measure for a number of years, so we welcome today’s announcement,” said Greg Weller, HIA Executive Director ACT/Southern NSW.
“Blocks over 800 square metres will be allowed to be build a secondary dwelling up to 120 square metres plus a garage, which can then be unit titled. This will assist in potentially bringing more homes to the market in Canberra, which are desperately needed.
“While the change is a positive one, it is disappointing that the secondary dwelling has been limited to a relatively small home. This seems at odds with the overall design of the new planning system, which is promoted as being outcome-focused rather than prescriptive.
“It would also have been preferable for the blocks size to be set at 700 square metres, as it was for the former Mr Fluffy blocks.
“Changes to RZ2 that allow for additional dwelling types and a relaxation on the sale of blocks that have been subdivided without development are also welcome.
“The release of the final documents will allow industry to finally have all the detail to start preparing for the new system when it comes in later this year. Before that however, we expect the Legislative Assembly will also spend some time reviewing it and we look forward to contributing to that process.
“We also welcome the focus from the ACT Government on managing this transition, with a number of education options also announced, along with a dedicated information hotline,” concluded Mr Weller.
The region's finest in residential building and renovation will be recognised tomorrow night as the 2026 HIA-CSR ACT and Southern NSW Housing, Kitchen & Bathroom Awards are held at Parliament House in Canberra.
HIA warns that proposed national construction standards and new procurement rules miss the mark and land hardest on home builders.
“Skilled trade shortages remain widespread across Australia, with demand for workers supported by the recovery in home building activity over the past year,” stated HIA Senior Economist Tom Devitt.
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has welcomed the passage of the ACT Government’s latest planning legislation, saying the reforms will help reduce delays, streamline approvals and support the delivery of more homes across Canberra.