Corrimal homes near completion as NSW pattern book uptake faces scrutiny

Four row homes nearing completion in Corrimal, north of Wollongong, could become the first finished under the NSW government's Housing Pattern Book scheme. Builder James Forrest is aiming to meet a November deadline using architectural plans purchased for A$1.

Forrest said approval took eight weeks, compared with about 12 months through the traditional process. He estimated the project cost around A$600,000 less than an ordinary build and hoped residents would occupy three homes by Christmas, with the larger fourth property marketed shortly afterwards.

Launched in July 2025, the scheme initially offered eight low-rise designs for A$1 during its first six months. Those plans now cost A$1,000. Purchases have reached 25,000, with 22 being built; the program has generated fewer than 60 applications, including 45 approvals.

Nine mid-rise options joined the book in November 2025, bringing the range to 17 designs. Priced at up to A$2,500, the mid-rise plans lack the planning controls and accelerated approval pathway available for low-rise projects.

Tom Forrest of the Urban Taskforce said mid-rise projects still required council development approval and faced ordinary planning timeframes. He argued the scheme had not increased the number of new dwellings reaching the market.

The NSW opposition has pledged new designs and a review of planning controls if elected. Shadow Housing Minister Chris Rath said the scheme remained too slow and restrictive.

Housing Industry Association NSW chief executive Brad Armitage said approvals were strong given economic conditions and the program's relative newness. Planning Minister Paul Scully defended progress, pointing to higher interest rates, construction costs and skilled labour shortages.