State Significant Developments (SSDs)

Understanding State Significant Development

State Significant Developments (SSDs) are major projects assessed by the NSW Government that can help support the long-term growth and needs of communities across the state.

Some of these developments may be proposed or delivered within the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area (LGA), contributing to future infrastructure, services, employment opportunities and regional growth.

You can learn more about State Significant Developments in the Coffs Harbour LGA including current projects by clicking here.

 

What is State Significant Development? 

State Significant Development (SSD) refers to projects that are considered important to New South Wales because of their potential economic, environmental, or social impacts. 

These developments are usually larger or more complex projects that may affect communities, housing, infrastructure, jobs, services, or the environment. 

SSD applications are assessed by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. 

 

When does a development become State Significant? 

A development may be classified as SSD if it meets certain criteria, such as: 

  • being above a specified size 
  • being located in an environmentally sensitive area 
  • exceeding a set development cost threshold 
  • having significant impacts at a regional or state level 

The NSW Minister for Planning may also declare some developments to be State Significant through a Ministerial Planning Order. 

Examples of developments that may be considered SSD include: 

  • large residential housing developments 
  • schools, universities, hospitals, and correctional centres 
  • chemical and manufacturing industries 
  • data centres 
  • mining and extraction operations 
  • tourist and recreation facilities 
  • some port, airport and rail projects 
  • waste management facilities 
  • energy generation projects 

Some developments on specific sites may also be classified as SSD due to their location or importance. 

 

Who manages State Significant Development? 

SSD applications are coordinated and assessed by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. 

The Department: 

  • manages the application process 
  • works with councils and government agencies 
  • reviews technical information and specialist reports 
  • considers community feedback 
  • prepares an assessment report and recommendation 

 

What is the role of Council? 

State Significant Development applications are separate from the standard development applications that local councils typically assess. 

Local councils are consulted as part of the SSD process and provide feedback on local issues, planning considerations, and community impacts. However, councils are generally not the consent authority and do not make the final decision on SSD applications. 

SSD applications are determined by the Minister for Planning, the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), or an authorised delegate. 

 

How can the community be involved? 

Community participation is an important part of the SSD process. 

All SSD applications are placed on public exhibition so community members can review information and provide feedback. 

Exhibition periods are generally: 

  • at least 28 days for most projects 
  • at least 14 days for some residential applications 

Community submissions are considered as part of the assessment process. 

 

What happens during the assessment process? 

State Significant Development applications go through a detailed assessment process. 

The main stages are: 

1. Request SEARs 

The applicant requests Secretary's Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs), which outline the studies and information that need to be prepared. 

2. Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) 

The applicant prepares an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which examines potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures. 

3. Public exhibition of the application 

The development application and supporting information are made available for public review and comment. 

4. Response to submissions 

The applicant responds to issues and concerns raised by the community and government agencies. 

5. Assessment of the application 

The Department reviews all information and considers: 

  • strategic plans and planning policies 
  • local council feedback 
  • specialist and technical advice 
  • community submissions 
  • the broader public interest 

6. Determination of the application 

A final decision is made by the Minister for Planning, the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), or an authorised delegate. 

Some projects may involve further stages, including: 

  • amendments to the application 
  • public hearings 
  • reviews or appeals 
  • modifications after approval  

 

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