A new planning policy introducing mandatory boarding house affordability standards and co-living as a new housing option has been proposed by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE).
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes said DPIE was calling for feedback until 29 August on the Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), the first principle-led, consolidated Housing SEPP.
Mr Stokes said the housing options would offer new housing types and tenures to accommodate Sydney’s growing population.
“As our population grows and changes, so do our housing needs,” Mr Stokes said.
“Traditional housing arrangements are just not suitable for many, especially those on low incomes,” he said.
“The proposed SEPP has been developed following extensive consultation and we’re giving everyone a final chance to have their say to ensure we get it right.”
Mr Stokes said the proposed changes would streamline planning pathways in support of local strategic planning, “so we get the right mix of housing types in the right locations”.
The Minister said the draft Planning Policy was part of DPIE’s wider efforts to boost housing supply.
“The Housing SEPP also proposes that boarding houses would only be permitted in low-density residential areas if councils allow it, while providing clarity around where seniors living is permitted,” he said.
Mr Stokes said the draft Housing SEPP contained new and updated provisions for boarding houses, with rooms to be rented at an affordable rate and managed by a registered community housing provider; co-living housing designed for community living with private spaces connected to community facilities; and seniors housing –zones where seniors housing would be permissible.
DPIE’s 93-page draft Housing SEPP can be accessed at this PS News link and information on how to have a say at this link.
