A state policy on housing affordability will be announced in the "very near future", says new Planning Minister Anthony Roberts, who has given a robust defence of the strength of Sydney's housing market and the need for those who do not own property to get their foot in the door.

"This is about fairness, and this is about enabling people to get into the Sydney housing market," said Mr Roberts, speaking at the launch of a new apartment development at Olympic Park.

"Once you are in the Sydney housing market you are pretty well set then for the rest of your life," said Mr Roberts.

Mr Roberts assumed the Planning and Housing portfolios in a cabinet reshuffle triggered by Gladys Berejiklian's ascension to the premiership.