Two major planning proposals have been approved by the NSW Government, paving the way for the delivery of hundreds of new affordable homes within the Nowra Riverfront Precinct.
The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) and Homes NSW have worked in partnership with Council on two separate rezoning proposals, enabling a greater diversity of housing across 3.4 hectares of waterfront land in the western portion of the precinct, as well as within the Mandalay Avenue Sub-Precinct.
The State Government announced today that the rezonings for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct and Mandalay Avenue Sub-Precinct have been finalised.
Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said the approvals to rezone land and increase maximum building heights marked an exciting milestone for the city as it would support the delivery of much-needed housing while helping to activate and revitalise the riverfront.
“Securing these approvals is a significant step forward for the Nowra Riverfront and for our community. By enabling a greater mix of housing types, we’re creating opportunities for more people to live close to the city centre, to access key services and to enjoy our incredible riverfront,” Cr White said.
“This outcome reflects the strong collaboration between all levels of Government to unlock much-needed housing in a highly desirable location while enhancing the character and liveability of Nowra.
“I know the community has a clear vision for this precinct and I’m incredibly excited to see it continue to evolve into a place where people can live, work and enjoy the riverfront for generations to come.
“I’d like to thank the NSW Government and congratulate Council staff for their ongoing work to realise the potential of this important precinct as a major community, cultural and recreational hub.
“I would also like to acknowledge NSW Premier Chris Minns for fulfilling his commitment to get this transformational project moving as quickly as possible,” she said.
The first approval, for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct, allows for the maximum building heights at the Scenic Drive, Hyam Street and Bridge Road sub-precincts to be increased within Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan 2014 (LEP), meaning building heights of between five and 12 storeys. This will facilitate the development of up to 377 new homes and associated commercial/retail premises.
The second approval will enable Homes NSW to deliver approximately 537 social, affordable and private dwellings within the Mandalay Avenue Precinct, up to six storeys high, with design excellence requirements for taller buildings.
The rezonings will result in at least 30% social and affordable housing on Homes NSW land, and 2% affordable housing on private land across both areas. During a visit to Nowra in March 2025, NSW Premier Chris Minns announced both projects would be fast-tracked through the streamlined, State Significant Rezoning pathway.
In January 2025, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese committed $5 million in Australian Government funding to assist Council to finalise an Open Space Masterplan for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct.
For more information or to subscribe for project updates, visit the Nowra Riverfront Precinct Activation Get Involved page.
