Developers will be able to get quicker decisions on rezoning applications rejected by councils under a new system that will start on September 1.
Applicants will be able to ask for an independent review by a Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) or Sydney Planning Panel, which will serve the same role under the new Greater Sydney Commission.
Planning Minister Rob Stokes said it was expected 85 per cent of reviews would be processed within 90 days.
The Rezoning Review will replace the pre-Gateway system under which reviews are carried out by the Department of Planning and Environment.
Mr Stokes said the new process would top amendments being made to proposals at the review stage, slowing proceedings and wasting time and resources.
“This will end the absurd situation of proposals rising like zombies again and again in an endless cycle of amendments and resubmissions during the review process,” he said.
“The Rezoning Review will also be faster, more efficient and more independent, enabling local decision makers to resolve matters without additional involvement of state bureaucrats.
“A simpler, easier to understand and quicker review process will benefit applicants and the community alike.”
Mr Stokes said a strengthened strategic merit test would be applied to proposed rezonings.
Reviews would not take place without proposals satisfying this test as a minimum threshold.
Mr Stokes said the new process followed feedback from councils, the community and industry.