The next stage of the NSW Planning System Reforms will commence on 21 March 2026, introducing several changes aimed at creating a faster, more proportionate and outcomes-focused planning system.
Our planning team at ADW Johnson Pty Ltd is ready to assist clients in navigating the upcoming reforms, including:
🔹 Targeted Assessment Development pathway: allowing certain projects to bypass a full merit assessment where key issues have already been addressed upfront.
🔹 DA modification changes: including pathway amendments and a 14-day assessment period for modifications with no environmental impact. ⏱️
🔹 Division 5.1 EIS updates: moving to a more proportionate assessment approach focusing on significant likely environmental impacts. 🌱
🔹 Division 8.2 Reviews: new provisions allowing reviews of determined DAs and modifications where no review or appeal has yet been lodged.
🔹 Deemed refusal appeals: expanded appeal rights allowing applicants to appeal any DA or modification that has not been determined within the assessment period.
These reforms form part of the most significant update to the NSW planning system in a generation, designed to streamline decision-making while maintaining appropriate environmental and planning oversight.
💡 How can ADW Johnson help?
Our experienced Planning team can help you:
✔ Navigate the new legislation and approval pathways
✔ Identify opportunities to streamline your development approvals
✔ Manage DA modifications and reviews under the updated framework
✔ Coordinate with the DPHI Post Consent Support Service to remove project bottlenecks
Our team is also supporting clients through the DPHI Post Consent Support Service, helping remove planning bottlenecks and keep projects moving.
📩 If you’re planning a project or want to understand how these reforms may affect you, reach out to the ADW Johnson Planning team, we’d be happy to help.
More information on the reforms is available here:
https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/planning-reforms