Greater Sydney Commission to transform our city

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Planning Minister Pru Goward today announced plans to establish a Greater Sydney Commission to modernise the way the NSW Government’s major infrastructure and urban planning priorities are delivered.

“Sydney is Australia’s greatest city and one of the best cities in the world to live in - we want to keep it that way,” Mr Baird said.

“The establishment of a single agency, to be known as the Greater Sydney Commission, will streamline the way the NSW Government’s infrastructure and urban planning priorities are delivered.

“The Greater Sydney Commission could be tasked with priorities such as implementing the Sydney Metropolitan Strategy and advising government on future plans and assisting developing Sub-Regional Plans in partnership with local government.

“Other major jurisdictions such as London have shown the way on how to better manage urban growth and provide choice and opportunity for housing and employment.

“Major infrastructure projects like WestConnex extend across several council areas – the Greater Sydney Commission will ensure planning for Sydney’s future is done in a holistic way.”

Mr Baird said he has asked the Planning Minister to develop a detailed proposal for the Greater Sydney Commission for consideration by Cabinet.

Ms Goward said the challenge posed by Sydney’s growing population needed a new approach.

“The community expects development to be sensible, integrated, and well-coordinated. It is the only way we can continue to build a vibrant, well-functioning city,” Ms Goward said.

“I envisage a Commission that draws on the experience of independent experts as well as local councils, so we can achieve a balance between the strategic development of Sydney, and local input into decision-making.

“The expertise and leadership of Councils will be a key asset that the Commission uses in delivering better outcomes for the people of Sydney.”