HIA Executive Director WA Michael McGowan said the reforms address several longstanding industry concerns and represent positive progress toward a more efficient planning system.

HIA particularly welcomes:

• The proposed extension of planning exemptions to compliant grouped dwelling developments of up to four homes and apartments that meet Deemed-to-comply standards. HIA initially proposed and strongly advocated for this reform, which will remove unnecessary planning approvals where developments already satisfy established planning requirements.
• The introduction of a 28-day statutory timeframe for local government responses to engineering drawings during the subdivision process.
• Measures to streamline structure planning, subdivision approvals and condition clearances.
• Greater consistency across local planning schemes and reduced administrative burden for applicants.

“The standout reform is the proposed expansion of planning exemptions to grouped dwellings and apartments,” said Mr McGowan.

“HIA proposed and pushed for this change because there is little value in requiring additional planning approvals for developments that already meet Deemed-to-comply provisions.”

Mr McGowan said the changes would particularly assist in delivering the range of housing types needed to improve affordability and increase supply in established urban areas.

“Akin to the single house exemptions, these reforms recognise that good planning outcomes can be achieved without imposing extra layers of assessment on straightforward, compliant developments.

“Single houses now largely meet Deemed-to-comply because of this pathway, and this expansion will greatly assist both builders and the Government Architect with pattern book designs.

“Every approval process adds time, uncertainty and cost. Removing unnecessary hurdles will help bring forward housing delivery and improve the feasibility of projects that might otherwise be delayed or abandoned,” said Mr McGowan.

HIA also welcomed measures aimed at improving accountability and timeliness throughout the subdivision process.

“The introduction of statutory timeframes for local government responses is a practical reform that provides greater certainty for land developers and helps keep projects moving.

“Planning reform is not the only answer to Western Australia’s housing shortage, but it is a critical piece of the puzzle. Reducing delays across the planning system is one of the most effective ways governments can support increased housing supply.

“The housing industry has consistently called for a planning system that is simpler, faster and more predictable. The WA Government are clearly listening, and these reforms move us further in that direction and will support the delivery of more homes for Western Australians,” concluded Mr McGowan.

For more information please contact: