If you’re thinking about buying a home in NSW, you might start noticing new residential or mixed-use developments appearing in your neighbourhood, or hearing about projects you hadn’t yet seen on local council plans. Many of these are part of the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) and its State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, a new initiative by the NSW Government designed to speed up the delivery of homes across the state.
But what does that mean for you as a buyer? Here’s a breakdown.
How much has take-up grown? What the HDA and SSD Pathway Are
The HDA was established to address NSW’s housing shortage by fast-tracking large-scale, well-located housing projects. The SSD pathway allows the government to classify certain developments as “state significant,” which means:
- They override some local council planning rules, allowing approvals to happen faster.
- They go through a state-led assessment process rather than a local council process.
- Public consultation still happens, but the project’s progress is driven at the state level.
Essentially, the HDA and SSD pathway are designed to get more homes built faster, especially in areas where housing is in high demand.
How a nearby HDA / SSD Project can affect you as a buyer
- Property Values
- A large new residential or mixed-use development can change supply and demand dynamics in an area.
- If the project adds hundreds of homes, it can increase local supply, which may slow the rate of price growth in the short term.
- Conversely, well-located developments with good amenities can boost demand, making nearby properties more attractive.
- Local Infrastructure and Amenitities
- HDA/SSD projects are usually tied to infrastructure planning, including roads, public transport, schools, and parks.
- Some developments may improve local amenities, increasing the desirability of the neighbourhood.
- However, construction can mean temporary disruption, including traffic, noise, and construction activity that may last months or years.
3. Community Character and Density
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- Because SSD projects can override local council controls, they may change the density or character of an area.
- Buyers should consider whether they are comfortable with larger apartment complexes, townhouses, or shop-top housing in their vicinity.
4. Timeline and Uncertainty
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- An SSD declaration does not guarantee immediate construction. Projects must still go through Environmental Impact Statements (EIS), assessments, and approvals.
- Timelines can range from months to a few years before construction starts.
- Buyers should track EOIs and HDA updates to understand where projects are in the process. (NSW Planning – HDA)
5. Potential for Future Value Growth
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- Areas with new, high-quality housing and improved amenities often see long-term uplift in property values.
- Conversely, if multiple large projects are concentrated in one area, there may be short-term oversupply, so timing matters.
How to track HDA / SSD Projects near you
- Visit the HDA page on NSW Planning to see current projects, EOIs, and ministerial decisions.
- Check whether projects are declared SSD, under assessment, or still in the EOI phase.
- Monitor public exhibition periods for EIS documents, which provide insight into scale, density, and likely completion dates.
Northern Beaches, Lower North Shore and Newcastle Examples
While the HDA is statewide, the Northern Beaches has several projects already declared SSD, including large residential and mixed-use developments in Sydney including Brookvale, Dee Why, Cromer, Frenchs Forest, Mosman, North Sydney, Willoughby, Chatswood and Lane Cove. Other examples in Newcastle are located in Wickham, Newcastle West, The Junction and Hamilton. Buyers in these areas may see:
- Increased density and new housing supply
- Potential improvements to local infrastructure
- Shifts in community character, with more apartments or shop-top housing
These projects illustrate how HDA/SSD initiatives reshape local property markets, affecting everything from pricing trends to lifestyle considerations.
Key takeaways for buyers
- Do your research: Check which projects are planned in the area and their stage in the HDA/SSD process.
- Consider the timeline: Construction may not start for months or years, but the project can still influence local property dynamics now.
- Think long-term: Well-located SSD projects can enhance neighbourhood appeal and infrastructure, potentially boosting property values over time.
- Balance pros and cons: While fast-tracked housing can improve supply, it may also change the local character and increase density.
Buying in an area with an HDA/SSD project nearby is not inherently positive or negative. It simply means buyers should be more informed about upcoming changes to supply, infrastructure, and community character so they can make the best decision for their lifestyle and investment.
Looking to buy property in NSW?
Our team of buyers agents are based in Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Lower North Shore, as well as Newcastle and carry out thorough due diligence, helping you navigate the market and secure the right place.