Today marks one of the most significant changes to the NSW planning system in recent years, with the Development Coordination Authority (DCA) officially commencing its expanded role as the central coordination point for NSW Government agency referrals.

Much of the discussion around the reforms has focused on improving the assessment of local development applications and supporting the delivery of new housing. However, there are also important implications for state significant development (SSD) projects that proponents, consultants and project teams should understand.

While the core SSD assessment pathway remains largely unchanged, the way government agencies contribute to assessments is evolving.

Some of the key reforms to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) have now commenced, providing important clarity for proponents and consent authorities in NSW. Environmental Project Manager Liberty Pannowitz unpacks what’s changed so far, and the savings and transitional periods you need to be aware of.

The NSW Government last month announced the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025 which would see a raft of changes to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the EP&A Act).

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Planning System Reforms) Bill 2025 is due to be debated in NSW Parliament this month.

Environmental Project Manager Patric Illingworth explains some of the key changes proposed to the EP&A Act relevant to the assessment and approval of resourcing, energy and infrastructure projects below.