Destination NSW
What are industry missions?
The NSW Industry Policy takes a mission-based approach to solving critical challenges faced by the state.
We’re focusing on advancing the government’s strategic priorities across net zero and energy transition, housing, and local manufacturing.
Through these three connected missions, the NSW Government aims to steer resources to the parts of the economy where actions are most likely to yield the greatest public benefits, foster the cooperation needed to find effective solutions, and coordinate action across different stakeholders.
This page explores housing and why it’s a priority for NSW.
Learn more about the state's priorities
The housing sector at a glance
Why housing matters in NSW
NSW needs more safe, affordable and sustainable homes. Housing is key to our economy, environment and quality of life.
The NSW Government is backing investment in 3 areas:
- Low-carbon and recycled building materials
- faster, smarter building methods
- construction projects supported by strong planning settings.
Opportunities in housing
Building materials
NSW is supporting investment in low-carbon and recycled building materials. The Low Carbon Product Manufacturing Fund helps businesses set up local factories to produce sustainable goods.
The government is also increasing the use of recycled materials in public infrastructure, creating steady demand in the domestic market. Partnerships with groups like the Materials and Embodied Carbon Leaders’ Alliance (MECLA) and the SmartCrete Cooperative Research Centre are driving innovation across the sector.
There are also growing opportunities to invest in alternative materials such as engineered timber, bamboo, hemp and other bio-based products.
Building methods
To deliver more homes, NSW is backing faster and more efficient construction methods. These include modular housing and other modern methods of construction (MMC), as well as robotics, automation and 3D printing.
Smart building systems and digital design tools also present strong investment potential. Homes NSW has already invested $10 million in modular housing to support social housing delivery.
Investors have a chance to scale up these technologies and bring global expertise to NSW.
Construction projects
Construction plays a vital role in NSW’s economy and climate goals. There are many ways to invest – from large infrastructure projects like Sydney Water’s $34 billion pipeline, to funding new social and affordable housing.
Emerging housing models such as build-to-rent are gaining momentum, supported by tax incentives. Planning reforms like the Transport Oriented Development Program make it easier to align housing delivery with new transport links.
NSW is also a leader in smart, sustainable design. Rating systems like NABERS and BASIX are helping to improve building performance and reduce emissions across the state.
How Investment NSW can help
We offer free support to businesses looking to grow in housing, including:
- market intelligence and insights
- advice on NSW Government programs and approval processes
- connections with government and local business contacts
- help developing business cases
- identification of investment locations and potential partners
- coordination of familiarisation visits.
Get support
Want to grow your business in housing or construction? Investment NSW can help. Contact Investment NSW to discuss your plans and find the right support.