The ACT Government is introducing the Planning (Territory Priority Project) Amendment Bill 2025 which will automatically classify public housing and public health facilities as Territory Priority Projects, removing appeal rights to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). Since 2019 there have been a total of 20 ACAT appeal applications for public housing developments. In the last five years around 13 per cent of total ACAT appeals on development applications related to public housing developments.
“This Bill is a practical measure to remove barriers to a home for families on Housing ACT’s waiting lists. We’ve seen far too many instances of delays to already approved public housing projects from costly appeals.” Minister for Planning and Sustainable Development Chris Steel commented “This law means public housing and health facilities that significantly benefit the people of the ACT can be rolled out without unnecessary delays. Development applications will be exempt from third-party appeals and provide greater certainty for the delivery of public housing and key health infrastructure. Importantly, Canberrans will still be able to have their say on all development applications through the independent planning process.”

“This new legislation will support the delivery of the ACT Government’s plans for 1000 new public homes by 2030. In the last five years, ACAT applications have delayed more than 100 public homes for those who need them most.” Minister for Homes and New Suburbs Yvette Berry commented “With so many Canberrans on the waitlist for public housing, many of whom are experiencing a range of vulnerabilities, we must pull out all the stops to get homes built as quickly as possible. The Territory Priority Projects process provides a pathway to achieve this goal, while maintaining the normal development application process that enables neighbours and other parties to be consulted.”
“Whether it is the new northside hospital or a community health centre, public health infrastructure plays a vital role in supporting our growing city and region. The ACT Government is committed to delivering better health care closer to home and that means continuing to expand health services across Canberra.” Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith commented “Prioritising public health infrastructure through the Territory Priority Projects process will ensure our health services can deliver the care Canberrans need, when and where they need it.”
More than 75 per cent of these appeals are ultimately resolved through mediation or with ACAT agreeing with the original decision, meaning costly delays could have been avoided. Any new Territory Priority Projects will still be required to adhere to all planning and design requirements under the Planning Act. As part of that process community feedback will be considered by the independent Territory Planning Authority.