What Transport-Oriented Development(TOD) in NSW?

State and Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) Changes – TOD Explained

The New South Wales (NSW) government, recognising the urgency of the housing supply issue, has recently released the TOD program.
Watch the video below as Colin Fragar explains what Transport-Oriented Development is and what it means for NSW.
 

This initiative focuses on increasing housing density around key transport hubs. These key hubs have been classified as Accelerated Precincts. The TOD program plays a big part in NSW’s plan for its ‘Six-Cities Region’ planning, which aims to enable more people to live close to transport, jobs, services, nightlife and amenities.

Rezoning around these transport hubs will create capacity for up to 61,855 new homes over 15 years, and all will be within walking distance to key transport stations. To support the surge of growth in these local communities, the NSW Government has committed to invest $520 million into community infrastructure including better roads, and better quality public open spaces.

The goal of TOD is to give people more choices for low-rise (1-2 storey) and mid-rise (3-6 storey) housing options. This change offers exciting new opportunities for developers and homeowners alike. The program has been designed to fast-track approvals and make it easier for landowners to receive Council Approval for developments such as Dual Occupancy, Terraces, and Manor houses.

The strategy is intended to be more sustainable by taking advantage of existing and planned transport infrastructure around transport hubs to reduce the reliance on cars. The increased supply in these areas will aim to improve housing affordability and accessibility so that residents can enjoy their local amenities and foster a healthier and more connected urban environment. 

Key Features Include:

  1. Mixed-Use Developments: TOD projects often blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces so residents can access amenities such as retail shops, restaurants, parks, and entertainment, all within close proximity.
  2. Higher-Density Living: By concentrating housing and commercial spaces around transport nodes, TOD promotes efficient land use, reduces urban sprawl, and increases the density of services.
  3. Public Transport Accessibility: The design focuses on making public transport the most convenient mode of transportation, reducing traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and more vibrant local economies.

Where are the TOD Locations in NSW?

TOD has identified 8 priority high-growth areas near transport hubs in greater Sydney for accelerated rezoning. These include:
  1. Bankstown
  2. Bays West
  3. Bella Vista
  4. Crows Nest
  5. Homebush
  6. Hornsby
  7. Kellyville
  8. Macquarie Park
In addition to these precincts, there are an additional 37 stations that have been highlighted for change and higher density planning.

Residential Zones Affected

  • R1
  • R2
  • R3
  • R4

Housing Employment Zones Affected

  • E1
  • E2

7 Benefits of the TOD Program

TOD is a much needed and valuable solution to the housing supply issue facing New South Wales. It also provides exciting opportunities for people that are wanting to capitalise on the changes.

Below are the top 7 benefits of TOD:
  1. Faster Approvals: You can receive Development Approval within 90 days, making it easier to start and complete your project.
  2. Improved Affordability: Multi-occupancy housing is more affordable for young families struggling with the high cost of living and trying to enter the market, making it easier to sell once the project is complete.
  3. Increased Property Values: Properties near public transport hubs tend to command higher prices due to convenience, leading to better returns on investment.
  4. Diversity: The low-rise housing diversity code (LRHDC) encourages increasing housing options to cater to the growing population in NSW.
  5. Design, Sustainability & Market Appeal: There is an increase in demand for sustainable homes. The changes promote high-quality, sustainable housing designs that integrate with the local community and environment.
  6. Social Benefits: Plans to improve access to healthcare, employment, and education in these areas make them attractive to potential homebuyers.
  7. Better Future for Communities- the changes being made today, will ultimately provide better communities of the future, ie. those that are well located to transport hubs, schools, employment and hospitals

Wondering about the potential for your property?

We hope you’re as excited as us about the changes coming to NSW. If this article has sparked your interest and if you’re wondering how you might be able to take advantage of these changes, we would be happy to assist you. With over 27 years of experience in helping clients across NSW we would love to turn your dreams into reality.


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Article Last Updated: 30 October 2024