Missing Middle Housing Reform Update Letter
Dear Clients,
We would like to inform you of a recent development in the ACT planning framework that may be of interest to you.
The Planning (Missing Middle Housing) Amendment Bill 2026 (https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/b/db_74083/) is currently being considered by the ACT Legislative Assembly.
In brief, the proposed changes include:
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Small block subdivisions would no longer be considered significant developments, shortening approval times
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Giving all single-dwelling crown leases an automatic entitlement to build secondary residences
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Introducing a fast-track approval pathway for certain lease variations, reducing assessment timeframes.
There are currently no proposed changes to allow RZ1 block subdivision, or any other major changes. It is possible that further developments could take place at a later date, but this is uncertain.
At this stage, the Bill has not yet been enacted, and therefore there are no changes to the current planning rules or approval pathways.
Importantly, we confirm that:
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Your current projects will not be affected at this time, and
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All ongoing work will continue to be assessed under the existing legislative and planning framework.
We are closely monitoring the progress of this legislation and will provide further updates should the Bill be passed, and any changes come into effect that may impact your projects or development opportunities.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss how these proposed changes may apply to future projects, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
Kind regards,
Frank Walmsley
Client Service Manager
clientservices@cgfb.com.au