The NSW Government has announced an additional $23.9 million to fast-track thousands of new homes in regional areas, as part of a package to support local councils to deliver infrastructure and strategic planning to support housing growth.

From this week, councils outside of Greater Sydney can apply for funding through round four of two key programs:

Low Cost Loans Initiative – up to $20.9 million available to help councils deliver critical infrastructure like roads, parks, and enabling infrastructure to support new housing by covering 50 per cent of interest costs on loans;

Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund – up to $3 million in grants to support local planning projects that unlock new housing and improve affordability.

Grants under the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund range from $20,000 to $250,000 to support work such as housing strategies, masterplans, development control plans, and infrastructure contributions.

“We know infrastructure unlocks housing, and this investment is about making sure regional NSW has the roads, water, sewerage and community facilities it needs to support housing growth,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully.

“The Minns Government’s planning reforms such as the Housing Delivery Authority and NSW Housing Pattern Book are gaining popularity in regional NSW, this initiative will support that housing growth.

“By backing councils to deliver these projects sooner and at a lower cost, we’re helping to deliver more homes for people who want to live, work and stay in the regions.”

Applications for both programs close on 12 December. To apply, visit NSW Planning.

For more information, visit Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund and the Low Cost Loans Initiative.

Story via Inside Local Government