UPDATE: A crucial development in Sydney’s housing crisis has just emerged. The Minns government has approved a controversial $110 million proposal for an eight-storey apartment complex in Gordon, marking the first project to receive development approval through its expedited planning process.
This significant decision comes amid an independent review confirming the NSW Housing Delivery Authority effectively utilized an unauthorized AI tool for assessing major residential proposals, finding “no obvious errors or inaccuracies” in the reports it generated.
The green light for the Gordon apartment block paves the way for over 100 new residences as part of the government’s ambitious goal to construct 377,000 new homes by mid-2029. The Planning Department’s decision to bypass local council approvals aims to streamline housing development and alleviate the ongoing housing shortage in the region.
The Gordon project, which faced considerable pushback from local residents and the Ku-ring-gai Council, was approved in just seven months under the state significant development pathway, illustrating the government’s commitment to expedite housing solutions. Construction is expected to commence in mid-2026, significantly impacting housing availability in the area.
Planning Minister Paul Scully emphasized the need for rapid housing development, stating, “We have seen housing proposals of this size and scale getting stuck in local planning systems for too long.” The push for fast-tracking housing has been a hallmark of the Minns administration, aiming to address the pressing demand for affordable living spaces.
The review, led by former public servant Peter Duncan, was triggered after concerns arose regarding the use of the AI tool, which was developed by the husband of a planning official. While the tool was found to be merely an administrative aid, Duncan’s report recommended strengthening AI policies and ensuring all assessments are conducted with authorized software.
Despite the scrutiny, Scully reassured the public that the review’s findings confirmed the integrity of the authority’s processes, stating, “All necessary steps will be taken to support the continued function of the Housing Delivery Authority.”
As the process evolves, the authority has already recommended over 300 proposals, representing a potential 102,000 new homes across the state. The swift approval of the Gordon development signals a shift towards a more aggressive approach in tackling the housing crisis, drawing both support and criticism from various stakeholders.
For residents and potential homeowners, this development represents a glimmer of hope in a challenging housing market. The urgency for affordable housing solutions has never been more pronounced, and the government’s latest actions reflect a determined effort to meet the community’s needs.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the construction of the Gordon apartment block progresses and its implications unfold across Sydney’s housing landscape.
