Undersupplied WA Reveals Rail Precinct Planning Reforms

Western Australia has unveiled a major planning overhaul to boost housing supply, setting the stage for higher-density development around 10 key train stations.

The state has identified Ballajura, Bassendean, Carlisle-Oats Street, Claisebrook, Cottesloe, Glendalough, Morley, Mosman Park, Redcliffe and Swanbourne as the first precincts for the reforms.

Under the plan, new development schemes will encompass an 800m radius around each station, and the state government will take over responsibility for zoning, height controls and development decisions for councils.

The reforms aimed to cut red tape and fast-track urban infill, the government said, arguing that consistent planning rules across station precincts would help unlock underutilised land and support higher-density housing close to public transport.

▲ WA’s plans double the radius of the transport precinct areas compared with those of NSW.

The changes emulate those in NSW, where Transport Oriented Development (TOD) precincts were introduced. 

NSW has 37 railway stations designated for higher-density, mixed-use development around them, however, amended planning controls apply to within 400m, rather than WA’s 800 metres. 

“Consistent and co-ordinated planning frameworks are key to realising the full potential of transit-oriented development and increasing density in high amenity areas,” the WA Government said in its announcement. 

The state will consult with councils to inform context-specific precinct planning. 

Planning and lands minister John Carey said the changes would “supercharge” the delivery of housing in targeted locations. 

“While some councils have done great work and embraced a reform agenda, many have lacked the ability, the will or both to drive the change we need to get more housing out the door,” Carey said.

WA transport minister Rita Saffioti said the new Metronet network in Perth had been the biggest investment in public transport in the state’s history. 

“[It] has unlocked massive opportunities for more housing … more housing choice around our train station precincts will be critical to supporting our city as it grows, and implementing these improvement plans will ensure we expedite the delivery of new developments for the benefit of the community,” Saffioti said.