10 Perth suburbs earmarked as new housing hotspots with rezoning around train stations 

Western Australia is the latest state to embrace transport-oriented development, with 10 train station precincts set for faster, higher-density growth. 

In a move to increase higher-density housing, the Western Australian (WA) government has unveiled plans to speed up development and reduce red tape around major train station precincts across Greater Perth. 

The announcement makes WA the latest state to establish its own transport-oriented zones. New South Wales introduced its Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program in December 2023, identifying eight growth areas across Greater Sydney.  

In Victoria, the state has its Activity Centres Program, which aims to build more than 300,000 new homes in 50 areas close to public transport by 2051, with draft planning controls already released for the first 25 train and tram zones. 

According to the WA government, the approach has been “tested and proven” in those states. 

WA deputy premier Rita Saffioti said the state is committed to using transit-oriented development to help shape emerging communities. 

“More housing choice around our train station precincts will be critical to supporting our city as it grows, and implementing these improvement plans will ensure we expedite the delivery of new developments for the benefit of the community,” she said. 

Similar to NSW and Victoria, WA’s plans will centre on 800-metre radiuses around 10 train stations, streamlining development and cutting planning red tape. 

The first locations to have updated plans and schemes will be:  

Under the changes, the state government will take over as the decision-making body for height and zoning density controls within each precinct. 

WA’s new plans will focus on 800-metre radiuses around 10 train stations in Greater Perth. Picture: Getty

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WA planning and lands minister John Carey said this centralised approach will drive faster housing outcomes. 

“While some councils have done great work and embraced a reform agenda, many have lacked the ability, the will or both to drive the change we need to get more housing out the door,” Mr Carey said.  

“We are stepping in to ensure a consistent and streamlined approach to deliver vibrant, mixed-use precincts within walking distance to train stations. This initiative is one way we are streamlining and simplifying the planning system to accelerate housing supply.” 

The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) backed the strategy, highlighting station precincts as ideal locations for “thoughtful density” that can boost affordability, choice and liveability. 

“This approach is being used successfully across Australia, but success depends on good planning: high-quality urban design, mixed uses, walkable streets, great public spaces, and a clear, long-term framework for delivery,” PIA WA president Cameron Leckey said. 

“Density is not the goal on its own — thriving, connected communities are.” 

The WA government said it will work closely with councils to create plans that deliver diversity while maintaining each precinct’s sense of character.  

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