11,645 affordable dwellings needed in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.
Affordable housing plays an essential role in healthy communities and helps to make sure everyone has economic opportunity and social equity.
A common misconception is that affordable housing is directly related to or supported by the Department of Housing - this is not true.
Affordable housing is made up of a range of housing options, including rental properties, cooperative housing, and ownership. The goal is to create neighbourhoods where people of different income levels can live, work, and thrive.
Affordable housing refers to housing that is reasonably priced, making them accessible to individuals and families with lower to moderate incomes.
The principle at the centre of affordable housing is that households should not spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs, including rent or mortgage payments and utilities. This ensures that they have money left over for other essential needs like food, healthcare, education, and transportation.
WHY IT MATTERS
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43% of businesses highlighted an underlying lack of affordable housing as the cause.
93% of businesses are concerned about accelerating workforce shortages across key sectors of the economy.
22,700 households estimated in be in housing stress in the region (2021)
11,645 affordable dwellings needed in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.
WHY IT MATTERS
93% of businesses are concerned about accelerating workforce shortages across key sectors of the economy.
43% of businesses highlighted an underlying lack of affordable housing as the cause.
22,700 households estimated in be in housing stress in the region (2021)
HAVE YOUR SAY
To make steps toward fixing the housing crisis, we need your help. Vote now and show your support for more affordable housing.
UNDERSTANDING THE HOUSING CRISIS
The Illawarra and Shoalhaven region's population is projected to grow 30% by 2041. This rate of growth is faster than the rest of New South Wales. With housing already in short supply, this growth means the housing shortfall is now a crisis. We need an additional 11,645 dwellings across the four LGAs in the Illawarra & Shoalhaven.
The true cost of the housing crisis will be felt in a number of different ways by our community, however some examples of how you might be impacted include:
- Longer wait times for medical attention
- Less carers to help elderly family members
- Less cafes, bars and restaurants
- Less childcare services close to home
MAIN FACTORS
Complex regulations
Complex regulations for planning and construction across federal, state, and local governments hinder the ability to meet housing demands.
More people moving into the region
Shifts in internal migration, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, have heightened housing demands in regional areas like the Illawarra Shoalhaven.
Community opposition
Resistance from people in the community against new developments slows down the planning and approvals process.
Economic conditions
Tax and other economic policies can either improve and worsen housing affordability.
HAVE YOUR SAY
To make steps toward fixing the housing crisis, we need your help. Vote now and show your support for more affordable housing.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
- Support local affordable housing initiatives
Advocate for and support local affordable housing projects and policies. This includes participating in community consultations and public hearings to express support for affordable housing developments. - Advocate for policy changes
Contact local, state, and federal representatives to advocate for policy changes that promote affordable housing. This includes supporting measures like zoning reforms, expedited planning processes, and increased funding for affordable housing initiatives. - Educate and inform
Spread awareness about the affordable housing crisis and the importance of diverse housing options. By sharing information and engaging in discussions, individuals can help build a broader base of support in their community.
HAVE YOUR SAY!
To make steps toward fixing the housing crisis, we need your help. Vote now and show your support for more affordable housing.
