North Sydney has joined the growing ranks of Australian local governments moving to “electrify” the suburbs, with Councillors voting this week to adopt a policy that will discourage gas connections in all new residential developments.
The decision, made during Monday night’s Council meeting, formally amends the North Sydney Development Control Plan (NSDCP) 2025. Under the new rules, which are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, developers submitting plans for new homes and apartments must demonstrate that all daily energy needs—including cooking, heating, and hot water—are met by electricity rather than fossil gas.
An additional point was added to the recommendation, calling for any future amendments to the DCP to explored expanding the application of the policy to alterations and additions to residential developments, and non-residential developments.
The Case for “All-Electric”
Council officers argued the move was essential for three primary reasons:
- Health: Citing medical research linking indoor gas combustion to respiratory issues, including a 30% increased risk of childhood asthma.
- Economics: New all-electric homes are estimated to save households between $430 and $630 per year by removing the need for a second utility connection and its associated daily supply charges.
- Environment: Phasing out gas is a key pillar of Council’s target to reach net-zero emissions.
Community Backlash and Industry Concerns
Despite the strategic benefits, the policy has not been without friction. Of the 16 formal submissions received during the exhibition period, 13 were in opposition.
While industry groups like 350 Australia and some utility providers were supportive, others—including the Urban Taskforce and various local residents—raised concerns over personal choice and the strain on the existing electrical grid. On social media, the reaction was more pointed, with some residents labelling the move “social engineering” and questioning the Council’s authority to dictate cooking methods.
A Growing “Patchwork” Across Sydney
North Sydney is the latest domino to fall in a rapidly shifting metropolitan landscape. It joins at least nine other NSW councils, including the City of Sydney, Parramatta, Waverley, and Lane Cove, which have already implemented similar controls.
The local approaches vary in intensity:
- City of Sydney: Recently went a step further, mandating that even large commercial buildings and hotels be all-electric by 2027.
- Waverley Council: One of the early pioneers, its ban has been in place since late 2022.
The State Government Stand-Off
The move highlights a continued rift between local government and the NSW State Government. While Victoria and the ACT have implemented territory-wide gas bans for new builds, NSW Premier Chris Minns has repeatedly ruled out a statewide ban, citing concerns over energy reliability and cost-of-living.
By using the “DCP” (Development Control Plan) pathway, North Sydney and its neighbours are effectively bypassing the state’s hesitation, creating a “de facto” ban across the most densely populated parts of Sydney.
If you already have gas in your home, nothing changes. These rules apply only to new Development Applications (DAs) lodged after the July 1 deadline. If you are planning a major renovation that requires a new DA, you may be encouraged or required to switch to electric appliances like induction cooktops and heat-pump hot water systems.
Read the Council report here, or watch the meeting below from the 27 minute mark: