Local government has the capacity to play a major role in both facilitating and developing affordable housing in NSW. A number of councils are already involved in some innovative projects involving private and community partners, particularly in metropolitan Sydney.
Here are three reasons why local government should be concerned about affordable housing:
- Most councils plan for the functionality of the communities that they support – particularly in economic terms. Including affordable housing in the range of housing provided, results in a mix of people needed to make all aspects of the community work.
- Most communities have a concern, to which councils respond, about making their community vibrant and living. Particular concerns are around how their sons and daughters can remain in the area. Making provision for people at all stages of life and on different incomes contributes to vibrant living communities.
- Councils are uniquely placed to shape the built form in their community and to capture benefits from the development process. In certain circumstances, the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act can be used by councils to require provision of affordable housing in a residential development.
In recognition of the importance of local government’s role in facilitating affordable housing, the Centre for Affordable Housing with Housing NSW developed a Local Government Affordable Housing Strategy. The strategy aimed to inform and support individual councils as well as local government peak bodies.
Housing NSW implemented the following elements of the strategy:
- The web-based local government housing kit
- Affordable housing forums
- Affordable housing awards
- The funding of a senior position at the Local Government and Shires Association to promote and increase commitment to affordable housing
- Grant funds for partnership projects under the Local Government Housing Initiatives Program
- a National Affordable Housing Conference
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