More about the Master Planning Process

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. 

It helps Council, the community, and other partners work together to ensure changes maximise the benefits for all. This helps balance the current and future needs of the Kogarah Strategic Centre and wider Georges River community. 

A master plan does not set out the exact details of each individual development, it offers a framework to guide decisions about future development, infrastructure, land use, and public spaces.  

You will have the opportunity to review and provide feedback on the Draft Master Plan for the Kogarah Strategic Centre when it is on exhibition. 

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.

In contrast, a local centre caters mainly to the everyday needs of nearby residents. These centres offer smaller-scale shops, services, and community spaces within a walkable area, helping to build a strong local identity and sense of place.

The NSW Government and local councils identify the role and type of centre of a locality. This guides the future planning and helps understand the potential future needs of an area.

In late 2023, the NSW Government introduced new housing and transport planning reforms to encourage more homes near public transport. While Kogarah already has planning controls that allow for some growth, this Master Plan will make sure that growth happens thoughtfully - with affordable housing, good design, and a focus on community needs.

Council will be preparing 12 master plans for its growth areas sequentially, guided by Council's priority and budget considerations. Of these Kogarah is a priority because of its important role in the region.

Your ideas and experiences as a resident, business or user of the Kogarah Centre can help shape Kogarah’s future. Here’s how you can contribute to the development of the draft Master Plan: