In a move to accelerate housing delivery, several NSW councils are trialling AI technology to fast-track building approvals.

Potentially benefiting those focused on residential property investing in Australia.

The state government trial includes Burwood, Blacktown, Inner West, Bayside, Randwick, Canterbury Bankstown, Cumberland, and Hawkesbury councils.

The AI system is being tested on straightforward applications, such as new homes, renovations, and duplex developments.

By using AI trained on each council’s specific planning rules, the technology aims to identify compliant applications faster, easing pressure on planning staff and reducing delays.

While the system can streamline the assessment process, final sign-off will still come from a council planner following public consultation.

NSW Housing Minister Paul Scully says the AI is intended to support—not replace—planners.

For investors, faster approval processes could mean quicker project timelines and reduced holding costs, making development a more attractive proposition.