New entertainment centre moves forward as calls to progress Broadmeadow precinct grow
The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery.
The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years.
Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago.
"The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
"Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge."
In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website.
The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for.
Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services.
"Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector.
"Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together.
"Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development."
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months.
"Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said.
"This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region.
"The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential."
Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct.
"The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said.
"This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come.
The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August.
The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth.
The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery.
The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years.
Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago.
"The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
"Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge."
In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website.
The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for.
Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services.
"Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector.
"Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together.
"Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development."
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months.
"Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said.
"This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region.
"The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential."
Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct.
"The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said.
"This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come.
The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August.
The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth.
The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery.
The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years.
Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago.
"The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
"Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge."
In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website.
The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for.
Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services.
"Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector.
"Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together.
"Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development."
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months.
"Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said.
"This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region.
"The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential."
Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct.
"The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said.
"This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come.
The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August.
The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth.
The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery.
The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years.
Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago.
"The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
"Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge."
In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website.
The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for.
Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services.
"Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector.
"Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together.
"Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development."
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months.
"Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said.
"This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region.
"The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential."
Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct.
"The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said.
"This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come.
The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August.
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The Advertiser
21-07-2025
- The Advertiser
New entertainment centre moves forward as calls to progress Broadmeadow precinct grow
The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth. The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery. The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years. Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago. "The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said. "Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge." In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website. The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for. Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services. "Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector. "Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together. "Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development." Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months. "Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said. "This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region. "The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential." Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct. "The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said. "This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come. The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August. The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth. The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery. The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years. Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago. "The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said. "Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge." In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website. The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for. Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services. "Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector. "Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together. "Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development." Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months. "Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said. "This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region. "The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential." Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct. "The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said. "This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come. The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August. The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth. The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery. The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years. Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago. "The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said. "Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge." In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website. The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for. Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services. "Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector. "Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together. "Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development." Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months. "Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said. "This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region. "The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential." Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct. "The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said. "This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come. The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August. The Property Council has called for the next steps to be taken in the delivery of the Broadmeadow Precinct - a project considered vital to the Lower Hunter's growth. The council has called for the finalisation of the precinct's stage 1 rezoning, the commitment of critical funding, and the appointment of a dedicated agency to coordinate delivery. The 313-hectare precinct has the potential to deliver 20,000 homes and 15,000 jobs over the next 30 years. Consultation on the precinct's place strategy closed a year ago. "The Department of Planning and Newcastle City Council have done the hard yards over the last few years - the place strategy is in place, and community feedback has been heard loud and clear," Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director and former Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said. "Now we need to see the rubber hit the road - industry is standing by to help turn this vision into reality, starting with rezoning, infrastructure investment, and the appointment of a single delivery agency to lead the charge." In a recent significant development, a new Newcastle Entertainment Centre, considered to be the centrepiece of the precinct, has been listed in the planning section of the NSW Infrastructure Pipeline website. The pipeline provides a forward view of state government infrastructure that is under development. It includes infrastructure projects with a minimum capital value of $50 million that the government has committed to commence planning for. Ms Nelmes said the precinct's stage 1 rezoning was a chance to create 3,200 well-located homes close to transport, jobs and services. "Rezoning land for housing is the first step - it's time to back in this ambitious vision with support from all levels of government and the private sector. "Appointing the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) as a delivery lead would give the region confidence that housing, transport, jobs and community spaces will move forward together, making sure land use, infrastructure and investment decisions work together. "Industry wants to invest in Newcastle - let's seize the chance to show that Broadmeadow is open for business, growth and inclusive development." Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley backed the push to progress the Broadmeadow precinct and said the rezoning process was due to be finalised in coming months. "Once finalised, the Broadmeadow Rezoning will outline how government-owned land can be utilised so that more housing, including affordable and diverse housing, is available for the people of the Hunter region. It is due to be finalised in the coming months," she said. "This builds on other government initiatives such as the Transport Oriented Development program, low and mid-rise reforms and work through the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation that will see more investment, homes and jobs for the region. "The rezoning of land represents a major step forward in unlocking the Hunter's full potential." Ms Nelmes said a whole-of-government approach was essential to coordinate planning, investment, and delivery across the precinct. "The NSW Government is serious about delivering on our housing targets - so securing funding now for early infrastructure delivery will send a clear signal that Broadmeadow is open for growth, investment, innovation, and inclusive community development," Ms Nelmes said. "This isn't just about homes. It's about creating a vibrant mixed-use precinct that supports jobs, services and inclusive community development for generations to come. The Property Council will host 'Broadmeadow's Moment: Unlocking Regional Growth Through Precinct Renewal' event at NEX in Newcastle West on 22 August.
News.com.au
16-07-2025
- News.com.au
Australia falls further behind ambitious 1.2 million home target
Australia is falling further behind its ambitious 1.2 million new home target, as the number of dwellings started, completed or under construction has slipped. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures, 27,663 new houses were built in the March quarter, down 1.3 per cent, while new private sector housing came in at 15,190, a drop of 9.3 per cent. When combined, 43,517 homes were built in the March quarter, down by 4 per cent on the December quarter. Last year, the federal government set an ambitious 1.2 million new-home target in five years under the National Housing Accord. In order to achieve this, Australia needs to build 60,000 homes a quarter. In brighter news, there was a 14 per cent lift in new houses started in March to 47,645. Property Council group executive policy and advocacy Matthew Kandelaars said Wednesday's data was further proof Australia needed to be building more homes. 'Progress against our housing targets was never going to be linear, but we've reached the point where we need to hit housing delivery in top gear just to keep pace, let alone get ahead,' Mr Kandelaars said. 'Official data on completions for the March 2025 quarter, nine months into the National Housing Accord, show we're running 18,147 homes behind target. 'It takes more than a year to build a home and more than three years to build an apartment project. Yet another quarter of poor numbers means more disappointment for future homebuyers and renters.' The data comes days after partially unredacted files were released to the ABC through a freedom of information request showing that Australia's National Housing Accord would 'not be met'. While Labor has committed to building 1.2 million well-located homes in the five years to June 30, 2029, the target is already 55,300 homes behind following its first year of operation. Despite the slow start, Treasurer Jim Chalmers backed Labor's ability to reach the target, adding that he was 'pretty relaxed' about the accidental FOI slip. 'Under current trajectories, we would fall short, but that doesn't mean that between now and over the course of the next four years that we can't consider ways and work with the states and territories and others, local governments and others, on ways to build more homes,' he told reporters on Monday. 'It's not the worst thing from time to time for it to be understood in the broader community that this will be a difficult target to meet. 'But if we all do our bit, we all play our part, as the Commonwealth has been willing to play, then we can build the homes that people desperately need.' Acting Coalition housing spokesman James Paterson said the advice from Treasury 'confirmed what Australians already know'. 'Labor will fail to build the 1.2 million new homes they promised,' he said. 'Under the former Coalition government, Australia built an average of 190,000 new homes per year. Under Labor, that figure has dropped to barely 170,000. To meet their own housing target, Labor needs to build 250,000 new homes annually. 'Instead of building housing, Labor are obsessed with building housing bureaucracies.' Mr Kandelaars said the nation's property industry remained ready to deliver but was being held back by settings that deter investment, slow approvals, high development costs and post-approval roadblocks. 'We're building homes half as fast as we were 30 years ago. That's not just a housing issue but a productivity problem,' Mr Kandelaars said. 'Next month's Economic Reform Roundtable hosted by the Treasurer is a chance to put housing delivery at the heart of the national productivity agenda, which means getting investment settings right and focusing on better, smarter and more efficient planning and environmental approvals.'
The Advertiser
28-06-2025
- The Advertiser
'Extremely difficult to swallow': developer's frustration at decision to preserve urban bushland
The state government has declared it wants to save the vast majority of a parcel of bushland on Newcastle's outskirts for conservation rather than housing. In a landmark decision that went against an Independent Planning Commission recommendation, only a small section of 505 Minmi Road at Fletcher will be built on. Under the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure's rezoning determination released on Friday, about 3.6 hectares (just under 15 per cent) of the 26-hectare site has been zoned for residential use. It represents a reduction of 9.7 hectares from what was originally proposed. It is estimated that the rezoned land could be used to build 35 to 40 lots compared to the 180 lots originally proposed. The area zoned for environmental conservation has increased from 12.98 hectares to 22.7 hectares. Peter Durbin, who bought the site 23 years ago with a view to developing it, expressed "disappointment and frustration" at the determination, which he said flew in the face of the state government's push to build more housing. "We requested a six-week extension from the department so we could apply under Freedom of Information to get the koala habitat data from the council. We believe the koala habitat is a great distance away from our property, but obviously, we can't prove that until we see that (data)," he said. "The council denied our application, and so did the department. To request a six-week extension so that we get an opportunity to use the documents that have put a nail in the coffin after 23 years doesn't seem like much of a request to me, but they denied it. We find that extremely difficult to swallow." Residents who have been campaigning for the site to be used as a green corridor and City of Newcastle celebrated the department's determination. "This is a great day for urban conservation in Newcastle, but it is also the final milestone for the Green Corridor Coalition, which set itself the very ambitious task of connecting together all national parks in the Lower Hunter to form the 65-kilometre-long Stockton Bight to Watagans Regional Biodiversity Corridor, with the regional park corridor being a prominent part of our 2003 vision statement," lead community campaigner Brian Purdue said. Mr Durbin said he was considering the implications of the rezoning on his plans for the site. In addition, he had written to Planning Minister Paul Scully to express his concern about the rezoning process; however, he had not received a response. "The Department of Planning was pushing hard to get housing in the area and all of a sudden it changed and we don't know why," he said. "They can say it's because of the koala, but if they really wanted housing, they would let us have a look at the report and comment on that, but they won't." The state government has declared it wants to save the vast majority of a parcel of bushland on Newcastle's outskirts for conservation rather than housing. In a landmark decision that went against an Independent Planning Commission recommendation, only a small section of 505 Minmi Road at Fletcher will be built on. Under the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure's rezoning determination released on Friday, about 3.6 hectares (just under 15 per cent) of the 26-hectare site has been zoned for residential use. It represents a reduction of 9.7 hectares from what was originally proposed. It is estimated that the rezoned land could be used to build 35 to 40 lots compared to the 180 lots originally proposed. The area zoned for environmental conservation has increased from 12.98 hectares to 22.7 hectares. Peter Durbin, who bought the site 23 years ago with a view to developing it, expressed "disappointment and frustration" at the determination, which he said flew in the face of the state government's push to build more housing. "We requested a six-week extension from the department so we could apply under Freedom of Information to get the koala habitat data from the council. We believe the koala habitat is a great distance away from our property, but obviously, we can't prove that until we see that (data)," he said. "The council denied our application, and so did the department. To request a six-week extension so that we get an opportunity to use the documents that have put a nail in the coffin after 23 years doesn't seem like much of a request to me, but they denied it. We find that extremely difficult to swallow." Residents who have been campaigning for the site to be used as a green corridor and City of Newcastle celebrated the department's determination. "This is a great day for urban conservation in Newcastle, but it is also the final milestone for the Green Corridor Coalition, which set itself the very ambitious task of connecting together all national parks in the Lower Hunter to form the 65-kilometre-long Stockton Bight to Watagans Regional Biodiversity Corridor, with the regional park corridor being a prominent part of our 2003 vision statement," lead community campaigner Brian Purdue said. Mr Durbin said he was considering the implications of the rezoning on his plans for the site. In addition, he had written to Planning Minister Paul Scully to express his concern about the rezoning process; however, he had not received a response. "The Department of Planning was pushing hard to get housing in the area and all of a sudden it changed and we don't know why," he said. "They can say it's because of the koala, but if they really wanted housing, they would let us have a look at the report and comment on that, but they won't." The state government has declared it wants to save the vast majority of a parcel of bushland on Newcastle's outskirts for conservation rather than housing. In a landmark decision that went against an Independent Planning Commission recommendation, only a small section of 505 Minmi Road at Fletcher will be built on. Under the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure's rezoning determination released on Friday, about 3.6 hectares (just under 15 per cent) of the 26-hectare site has been zoned for residential use. It represents a reduction of 9.7 hectares from what was originally proposed. It is estimated that the rezoned land could be used to build 35 to 40 lots compared to the 180 lots originally proposed. The area zoned for environmental conservation has increased from 12.98 hectares to 22.7 hectares. Peter Durbin, who bought the site 23 years ago with a view to developing it, expressed "disappointment and frustration" at the determination, which he said flew in the face of the state government's push to build more housing. "We requested a six-week extension from the department so we could apply under Freedom of Information to get the koala habitat data from the council. We believe the koala habitat is a great distance away from our property, but obviously, we can't prove that until we see that (data)," he said. "The council denied our application, and so did the department. To request a six-week extension so that we get an opportunity to use the documents that have put a nail in the coffin after 23 years doesn't seem like much of a request to me, but they denied it. We find that extremely difficult to swallow." Residents who have been campaigning for the site to be used as a green corridor and City of Newcastle celebrated the department's determination. "This is a great day for urban conservation in Newcastle, but it is also the final milestone for the Green Corridor Coalition, which set itself the very ambitious task of connecting together all national parks in the Lower Hunter to form the 65-kilometre-long Stockton Bight to Watagans Regional Biodiversity Corridor, with the regional park corridor being a prominent part of our 2003 vision statement," lead community campaigner Brian Purdue said. Mr Durbin said he was considering the implications of the rezoning on his plans for the site. In addition, he had written to Planning Minister Paul Scully to express his concern about the rezoning process; however, he had not received a response. "The Department of Planning was pushing hard to get housing in the area and all of a sudden it changed and we don't know why," he said. "They can say it's because of the koala, but if they really wanted housing, they would let us have a look at the report and comment on that, but they won't." The state government has declared it wants to save the vast majority of a parcel of bushland on Newcastle's outskirts for conservation rather than housing. In a landmark decision that went against an Independent Planning Commission recommendation, only a small section of 505 Minmi Road at Fletcher will be built on. Under the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure's rezoning determination released on Friday, about 3.6 hectares (just under 15 per cent) of the 26-hectare site has been zoned for residential use. It represents a reduction of 9.7 hectares from what was originally proposed. It is estimated that the rezoned land could be used to build 35 to 40 lots compared to the 180 lots originally proposed. The area zoned for environmental conservation has increased from 12.98 hectares to 22.7 hectares. Peter Durbin, who bought the site 23 years ago with a view to developing it, expressed "disappointment and frustration" at the determination, which he said flew in the face of the state government's push to build more housing. "We requested a six-week extension from the department so we could apply under Freedom of Information to get the koala habitat data from the council. We believe the koala habitat is a great distance away from our property, but obviously, we can't prove that until we see that (data)," he said. "The council denied our application, and so did the department. To request a six-week extension so that we get an opportunity to use the documents that have put a nail in the coffin after 23 years doesn't seem like much of a request to me, but they denied it. We find that extremely difficult to swallow." Residents who have been campaigning for the site to be used as a green corridor and City of Newcastle celebrated the department's determination. "This is a great day for urban conservation in Newcastle, but it is also the final milestone for the Green Corridor Coalition, which set itself the very ambitious task of connecting together all national parks in the Lower Hunter to form the 65-kilometre-long Stockton Bight to Watagans Regional Biodiversity Corridor, with the regional park corridor being a prominent part of our 2003 vision statement," lead community campaigner Brian Purdue said. Mr Durbin said he was considering the implications of the rezoning on his plans for the site. In addition, he had written to Planning Minister Paul Scully to express his concern about the rezoning process; however, he had not received a response. "The Department of Planning was pushing hard to get housing in the area and all of a sudden it changed and we don't know why," he said. "They can say it's because of the koala, but if they really wanted housing, they would let us have a look at the report and comment on that, but they won't."
