Ballina and Tweed councils could each secure up to $1 million for local infrastructure after cutting their average development application assessment times by nearly two months.
The councils have qualified for the second round of the NSW government’s Faster Assessments Incentive Program, which rewards improvements in planning assessment times with funding for infrastructure supporting new housing.
Ballina’s average assessment time fell by 59 days to 90 days in the 2025–26 financial year, while Tweed’s fell by 58 days to 93 days.
Both councils missed out in the first round because their average assessment times exceeded its 115-day benchmark.
The second round set a 105-day benchmark, with 44 councils qualifying across NSW.
Planning Minister Paul Scully said the results showed councils were improving their performance.
While the government’s announcement refers to grants of up to $3 million, the program guidelines cap funding for Ballina and Tweed at $1 million each.
The money is not yet guaranteed. Each council must nominate an eligible infrastructure project, which will undergo further assessment before funding is approved.
Eligible projects include roads and traffic upgrades, walking and cycling facilities, parks and community infrastructure that support new housing.
Applications opened on September 29 and close on November 10.
Projects must be completed by June 30, 2030.
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