NSW approvals highest level in 9 years

The number of housing approvals in New South Wales is recorded at the highest level in nine years, despite national falls, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

With a total of 41,309 houses approved over the 12 months to August 2013, this totals out at the highest level since 2003/2004, NSW Planning and Infrastructure Minister, Brad Hazzard, said.

“In NSW approvals have increased by 8% against the five year average in the period from April 2011 to August 2013, despite a fall of 2% in approvals nationally in the same period," Hazzard said.

He encouraged developers to come to the state to build more stock.

“The message to those who want to build houses is come to NSW, where we are open for business," he said.

In August 2013, 3,740 dwelling approvals were recorded, with approvals up 11% on the July 2013 result.