Tuesday, 17 March 2026 11:45

Planning that protects and delivers Featured

Flood event in Richmond Flood event in Richmond WSROC

Western Sydney is on the front line of heat, flood and fire—so our planning rules need to keep people safe while getting homes built in the right places.

WSROC has lodged a submission on the NSW Climate Change & Natural Hazard SEPP calling for clear, practical rules that put life safety first and give councils and industry certainty.Bushfires on the Bells Line of Road image courtesy of Hawkesbury City Council small captioned

We’ve asked the NSW Government to publish the draft SEPP and Ministerial Direction, lock in workable climate‑scenario settings, and turn the Urban Heat policy into enforceable minimums (including for complying development and single dwellings).

We’re also seeking to preserve effective local bushfire and flood controls—backed by evacuation‑neutral tests—and to make “build back better” practical with clear limits, responsibilities and support.

Finally, we’ve recommended aligned State datasets and a peer‑review “concierge” to speed consistent decisions across NSW.

Read the submission here

Last modified on Tuesday, 17 March 2026 11:57