The NSW Government has commenced implementing the Employment
Zone Framework following the range of reforms introduced in
December 2021. These changes will replace existing industrial and
business zones to bring new 'employment zones' and
'supporting zones' aiming to benefit businesses and
productivity while minimising land-use conflict.
The reform
In December 2021, the five new employment zones and three
supporting zones were formally introduced to the Standard
Instrument (Local Environmental Plans) Order 2006 to exist
alongside the existing business and industrial zones. The changes
were introduced by the NSW Government with key aims including
maximising productivity while ensuring the zones are 'fit for
purpose', addressing current barriers in the planning system
for businesses, and better supporting councils in delivering
strategic visions in their Local Strategic Planning Statements.
