NSW outlines 20-year plan for housing and growth in Illawara-Shoalhaven
NSW has released a draft 20-year regional plan for Illawarra-Shoalhaven targeting 117,000 new homes and 101,000 new jobs. The plan is open for public exhibition and covers housing, infrastructure, and growth strategy.
117,000 new homes planned for the Illawarra-Shoalhaven region over 20 years under the NSW draft regional plan.
What does NSW's 20-year Illawarra-Shoalhaven housing plan mean for local tradies?
Builders, electricians, plumbers and other trades in the Illawarra-Shoalhaven region could see a major pipeline of residential and infrastructure work over the next two decades.
Key takeaways
- NSW has released a draft 20-year regional plan for Illawarra-Shoalhaven targeting 117,000 new homes.
- The plan also aims to create over 101,000 jobs and deliver significant infrastructure across the region.
- The draft plan is currently on public exhibition, meaning trades and businesses can provide feedback.
- A long pipeline of residential and infrastructure work could open up for trades operating in the region.
Related
National Tradie Day
National Tradie Day on 18 September celebrates skilled workers and businesses across the trades sector. It is an annual recognition event for the industry.
Why it matters: Affects all trade types including plumbers, electricians, builders and painters. Minimal day-to-day business impact but offers a promotional opportunity.
Hunter & Central Coast housing targets depend on winning the battle for tradies
Regional NSW housing targets in the Hunter and Central Coast face a skilled trades shortage as construction competes with infrastructure, energy, and emerging industries for workers.
Why it matters: Builders, plumbers, electricians and other tradies in regional NSW may see increased demand and competition for their labour, affecting project timelines and wages.
The next phase of electrification is about our buildings
The ACT Government's new Climate Change Strategy 2026–36 outlines the next phase of building electrification. It signals continued policy pressure to move away from gas in buildings across the territory.
Why it matters: Builders, electricians, and plumbers in the ACT will face growing compliance requirements as electrification mandates expand. Expect changes to how new builds and retrofits are designed and installed.