Property Council Executive Director ACT & Capital Region, Ashlee Berry, said the changes were a critical step to unlocking new housing supply and tackling Canberra’s housing affordability crisis.
“Canberra is facing a significant housing affordability and supply challenge, with delays and inefficiencies in the planning system costing the industry millions of dollars each year and leaving Canberrans without the homes they need,” Ms Berry said.
“Lack of harmony between the Planning and Transport directorates has been a key roadblock to getting more homes built, and these reforms are an opportunity to cut through the bureaucracy that has slowed progress for too long,” she said.
Ms Berry said the government’s restructure aligns with priorities outlined in the Property Council’s ACT election platform.
“Our research identified the opportunity to unlock 60,000 new homes by addressing zoning challenges, fixing ACAT processes, and fast-tracking strategic residential projects,” Ms Berry said.
“Any measures that improve accountability, reduce silos, and streamline decision-making will only act in support of that goal. We need fixed timeframes, greater transparency, and a planning system that works seamlessly across directorates to deliver homes faster,” she said.
The Property Council has consistently called for a more collaborative approach between government and industry so that planning reforms deliver practical and timely outcomes.
“These changes are a step in the right direction, but they must deliver real results for Canberrans. It’s essential that the government and the public service remain focused on unlocking housing supply, reducing delays, and achieving their own ambitious housing targets,” Ms Berry said.
“The Property Council will continue to work with the ACT Government to ensure these reforms are implemented effectively, helping to create a more affordable and liveable Canberra,” she said.
