The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the NSW Government’s release of nine new architect-designed mid-rise apartment patterns, calling it a strong next step in delivering well-designed homes across the state.
Property Council NSW Executive Director Anita Hugo (pictured) said the additions build on the success of the low-rise pattern book, which the organisation has promoted through a statewide roadshow with Government Architect NSW.
“This is exactly the kind of practical tool the industry needs,” Hugo said in a media release.
“We backed the first tranche of patterns because it paired good design with faster pathways. Expanding the pattern book into mid-rise is the logical next move.”
The new mid-rise templates range from three to six storeys, covering small, large and corner lots. They are designed to support the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, which focuses on adding homes close to transport links, services, and employment hubs.
But Hugo stressed that success hinges on councils and planning authorities keeping pace with demand.
“Mid-rise is where the state will make real gains on supply," she said. "These designs are solid and buildable. Now the job is to make the approvals process match the ambition.”
Hugo noted that the government has committed to reducing DA timeframes and giving mid-rise patterns early access to a targeted assessment pathway.
The government’s streamlined complying development pathway is expected to reduce assessment times by up to 50%, provided submissions are verified by a qualified architect or building designer.
“We’ve said consistently that good design doesn’t count for anything if projects get stuck for months waiting for a decision," Hugo said. "Faster, predictable assessments are critical if the Pattern Book is going to shift the dial on construction starts and completions.”
The urgency is clear. ABS data shows completions falling from 10,336 to 9,638, and commencements dropping from 12,772 to 11,112.
“Those numbers spell it out – we still need the faster, clearer decisions flagged in the broader reform package if we’re going to lift approvals, drive commencements and claw back the lag in completions.”
Industry leaders have also called for practical digital tools and clear guidance to support uptake and ensure the system aligns with wider state planning priorities, including the Transport-Oriented Development reforms.
Hugo said the Property Council will continue working with Government Architect NSW to ensure the digital platform and guidance tools are practical for architects, builders and certifiers.
“This is a significant opportunity to normalise well-designed, medium-density housing in the places where people want to live,” she said.
The rollout has been shaped through extensive industry engagement, including a statewide roadshow that informed the Pattern Book’s structure and adoption strategy.
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