Frequently asked questions

A master plan is a long-term planning document that sets out the vision for an area to account for its growth and change over time. Proposed changes do not happen immediately, they are   implemented by future planning rules that are also subject to approval in the future.

A strategic centre is the term for a key hub that serves a wider area, offering a mix of services such as health, education, jobs, shops, and community facilities.

These centres are well-connected by public transport and support higher-density development to meet the needs of a larger population beyond those who live and work within that Centre. They usually attract private investment and play a role in the region’s growth and structure. They play a critical role in connecting local neighbourhoods and supporting the wider region.

Health and education precincts are important regional destinations that provide high-level services for local residents and people from surrounding areas. In Kogarah, this includes public and private hospitals, specialist medical clinics, a TAFE campus and several schools. Kogarah is one of only two health and education precincts identified in Sydney’s South District, along with Bankstown.

The NSW Government has introduced new planning policies to support more housing in well-connected locations, particularly around centres with good access to public transport. In response, Council is reviewing its planning framework across 12 growth areas in the LGA. Kogarah is a priority because it is recognised by both Council and the NSW Government as a Strategic Centre and a major Health and Education Precinct. This Master Plan will help ensure future growth is planned thoughtfully, with a focus on good design, housing choice, affordability, infrastructure, and community needs.

Once finalised and adopted by Council, Council will commence the preparation of a Planning Proposal, amendment to the Georges River Development Control Plan 2021, and amendment to the Georges River Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2021 to implement the Kogarah Strategic Centre Master Plan. Once finalised, these revised planning controls will provide a framework to guide future development. Proposals for development are mostly led by private applicants. Therefore, any change to Kogarah is likely to be gradual and will depend on a range of economic and social factors.

The draft Master Plan study area is centred on the Kogarah town centre. It is bounded by Harrow Road to the north, the T4 Illawarra rail line to the west, Princes Highway to the east and Jubilee Avenue to the south.

Yes, creating more open space has been a key consideration in the development of the draft master plan. The draft master plan proposes to create a mix of brand new open spaces, such as those along Chapel Street, Bellevue Street and Montgomery Street; upgrades to existing parklets and it also identifies potential shared school open space (for use after hours).

More open space for the Kogarah Strategic Centre will be achieved through different means that will include development incentive bonuses, development contribution funds and Council acquisition of land.

No. Existing planning controls continue to apply unless changes are later adopted by Council and, where required, the NSW Government. 

Development incentive bonuses mean that Council will be able to provide some key development sites additional building height and/or density if they meet certain requirements. These requirements are often tied to public benefit and can include the developer providing public open space as part of the development.

You can provide feedback by completing the online survey, making a written submission, speaking with Council staff at a pop-up kiosk, attending the online session, or contacting Council by phone, email or post.

Council will review all submissions received during the public exhibition. Feedback will be considered before the draft Master Plan is reported back to Council for a decision.