The new Territory Plan makes changes to RZ1 zoning – allowing more dual-occupancy developments.
11 September 2023
Canberrans will have access to more housing in suburbs where they may want to live, with the ACT Government reforms of the planning system aimed at providing more housing choices.
The ACT Government has released district strategies, the Territory Plan and design guides, that will support Canberra’s growth while retaining the elements that have made Canberra one of the world’s most liveable cities.
The new Territory Plan makes changes to RZ1 zoning.
Any Canberra block over 800sqm in an RZ1 zone will be able to build a second dwelling on their block up to 120sqm.
This will increase housing supply in existing suburbs to meet ever-growing demand.
Other requirements of the Territory Plan will apply to these new developments.
These include the mandatory site coverage provision and the requirement for soft landscaping and tree planting on blocks.
The new planning documents align with the ACT Government’s commitment to the National Housing Accord and the National Planning Reform Blueprint agreed at National Cabinet.
Planning reform is just one of several methods being used to address housing supply in the territory – one of the country’s fastest-growing jurisdictions.
The new documents incorporate significant feedback from the community and industry professionals, particularly regarding infill developments.
The final documents are being released to allow community and industry to become familiar with the new system ahead of transition.
The new system is expected to be in place from 27 November 2023, following Legislative Assembly approval.
Development applications must demonstrate how new developments meet the Territory Plan assessment outcomes. On specific development types, applications must show they respond to the design guidance set out in the design guides.
A training and education program will be rolled out over the coming months with key representatives from industry, the community, and other users of the new system.
More information about the new planning system and the finalised documents is available on the ACT Government’s planning website.
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