Building Business Back Better

Statewide

The NSW Government is building a faster, simpler planning system to support the State’s economic recovery.

We’ve made it easier for businesses by allowing them to do more work without the need for a development application as long as they meet the development standards.  We amended the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 (Codes SEPP) so businesses can establish, change and grow without the need for lengthy planning approvals.

The changes make it easier for businesses to operate and innovate. As long as businesses meet the rules, they can extend their operating and trading hours, set up a click and collect bay in the car park, or change their business altogether.

What are the changes?

The changes started on 1 February 2022 and included:

• a wider range of land uses so businesses can quickly adapt their offerings to new market demands for things like entertainment facilities, indoor recreation facilities and creative industries
• new and larger building allowances to attract more investment
• flexibility to carry out site and parking upgrades to accommodate new modes of delivery
• stay open for longer in certain areas to support night-time economies.

Consultation and feedback

The Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) was on public exhibition from 31 March until the 9 May 2021.

Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback on the EIE. During the exhibition period we asked for your feedback through surveys, webinars, and workshops. Your feedback helped us understand the needs of communities and industry.

Documents

• View the Explanation of Intended Effect
• Building Business Back Better consultation and engagement summary