On 28 April 2020, the NSW Government announced the first 24 projects to undergo a fast-tracked assessment process as part of the NSW Government’s new Planning System Acceleration Program. A further 24 projects were announced in the second tranche of the Program on 22 May 2020. 

The purpose of the Program is to redirect resources within the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment to accelerate the assessment and determination of projects that inject investment into the NSW economy and keep people in jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The assessment process is being accelerated, not changed. The usual planning rules and policies will apply, and all projects will be assessed under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Master Builders NSW commends the NSW Government on the fast tracking of these projects. We continue to work closely with various departments and ministers to push for further stimulus packages.