The New South Wales Government has lifted a six-year ban on granny flats in specific parts of Sydney’s south-west, particularly near the soon-to-be-launched Western Sydney International Airport. This strategic decision allows approximately 1,500 locals to explore more housing options in the rapidly developing region.
Residents in Wollondilly, Fairfield, Camden, Liverpool, and Penrith can now construct secondary dwellings of up to 85 square metres, reinstating previous allowances. However, compliance with certain noise-proofing regulations, such as installing double-glazed windows, will be necessary.
Independent Member for Wollondilly, Judy Hannan, described this change as a “significant milestone” following years of advocacy efforts. She highlighted that the amendment opens up much-needed affordable housing opportunities, offering proximity to jobs and essential services within a 30-minute commute to the airport.
Hannan elaborated that this change could facilitate young adults living in secondary dwellings, allowing them more time to save for their own homes. Additionally, it provides an option for ageing parents or grandparents to downsize into smaller accommodations on their property.
The granny flat restrictions were originally implemented as part of the state’s environmental planning policy in late 2020. They were designed to prevent new noise-sensitive developments, including residential secondary dwellings, in areas most likely to be affected by noise from the airport’s flight paths.
Planning Minister Paul Scully commented that the ban had become unnecessary, citing that recent long-term aircraft noise modelling around the Western Sydney airport had been completed. He noted, “We know the contours…the noise impacts will be, so we’re able to make that change.” Scully assured that the revised rules aim to balance allowing secondary dwellings in low-impact areas while maintaining restrictions in high-impact zones.
However, suburbs closest to the airport, including Luddenham, Bringelly, and Badgery’s Creek, will still be excluded from this amendment.
In a broader context, this change aligns with a trend observed across various state governments in Australia, which have been working to reduce bureaucratic barriers for backyard granny flats. For instance, Tasmania is in the process of revising its planning regulations to increase the maximum allowable size of granny flats from 60 square metres to 90 square metres.
In conclusion, the NSW government’s lifting of the granny flat ban near Western Sydney International Airport not only signifies a progressive shift towards enhancing housing affordability but also acknowledges the evolving needs of a growing community in this vital region.
