Hume council will explore how to boost local social housing by working with housing providers and the state and federal governments to develop projects on vacant land.
Councillors endorsed a motion at the 23 February meeting to explore how council-owned land, as well as state or federal sites, could be used to deliver more social and affordable homes.
Cr Kate Hamley said there was an urgent need for more council-driven social housing.
“The cost of housing is continuing to rise faster than incomes, putting incredible strain on household budgets and fueling growing inequality,” Cr Hamley said.
“Federal and state government commitments to social and affordable housing aren’t making an impact just yet, the scale of the problem is far too big.
“We need every level of government working together to make sure that everyone has a safe, secure home.”
She said Hume’s strategic property management framework opens opportunities to develop social housing on council land.
“There are government-owned properties throughout our city that have potential to be utilised to provide accessible, affordable homes for our community,” she said.
She said partnering with housing providers and the state and federal government to develop social housing is crucial.
“This would happen sooner than later because this need is urgent,” she said.
Cr Naim Kurt said recent national reporting on housing affordability is “shocking”.
“To buy a house in Victoria in Melbourne, you need to have a salary of $190,000,” Cr Kurt said.
“When you think about some of the low income earners across Hume, I don’t know many who are earning over $190,000.”
Cr Kurt said he is happy to consider using council land, state or crown land for social housing projects in Hume.
“Hopefully we can see some shovels in the ground and be on the way to providing some housing for those who need it.
“Whether it’s young people in need, whether it’s women in need, whether it’s low income earners, whether it’s people just need a roof over their head, this is a good place to start with it all.”
