Legislative Assembly Committee Holds Critical Hearings on Missing Middle Housing Reforms

Assembly Inquiry Targets Suburban Density Reforms

The future of Canberra’s residential landscape takes center stage today, Tuesday, 10 February 2026, as the ACT Legislative Assembly’s Inquiry into Draft Planning Amendment 04 (DPA-04) begins a high-stakes round of public hearings. The inquiry is specifically examining the controversial 'Missing Middle' housing reforms, which propose significant changes to zoning and density in established suburbs to address the territory’s ongoing housing supply challenges.

Packed Schedule of Community and Industry Witnesses

Hearings are being conducted in the Prince Edward Island Room at the Legislative Assembly building. Today’s schedule features a diverse array of stakeholders representing a broad spectrum of opinions on how Canberra should grow. The morning session includes a combined panel from the Inner South Canberra Community Council, the Reid Residents' Association, and the Curtin Residents Association. These groups are expected to voice concerns regarding the preservation of suburban character and the impact of increased density on local infrastructure.

Following the community councils, the committee will hear from major industry and advocacy bodies. The schedule for the day includes:

• Property Council of Australia: Presenting perspectives on how the reforms could streamline development and improve housing affordability.
• Conservation Council ACT Region: Focusing on the intersection of urban densification and environmental sustainability.
• University of Canberra Health Research Institute: Providing evidence on the health outcomes associated with different urban planning models.
• Greater Canberra: An advocacy group supporting increased housing density and supply to accommodate a growing population.
• Public Transport Association of Canberra: Discussing the vital link between residential density and the viability of the city’s transit network.

Political Stakes and Public Participation

While the full Legislative Assembly is not in a formal sitting week, committee activities like today’s hearing are a vital component of the ACT’s democratic process. These sessions allow for a level of scrutiny and public input that is often missing from general chamber debates. The findings of this inquiry will likely shape the final version of the DPA-04 legislation, which has become a focal point of political debate between the government and the opposition.

Canberrans interested in the proceedings can attend the hearings in person, as the viewing galleries remain open to the public. For those unable to attend, the sessions are being broadcast live via the Legislative Assembly’s digital platform. Transcripts from today’s evidence are expected to be published by Hansard within the coming week, providing a permanent record of this pivotal discussion on the territory's development future.