CHRONICLE COLUMN | HOUSING
Many sectors of the business community understand the impact of a lack of housing. It is understood the lack of housing is a deterrent to business attraction, is a disincentive to attracting a workforce, impacts on the ability of businesses to deliver their service, affects the image of the city, and inhibits business growth and success.
History shows us, Toowoomba: has not had sufficient supply of residential land for several years. History tells us, the city has faced some of the highest amount of rental stress in the country. Once a beacon of affordability, we know, housing prices soared in part due to lack of supply. Combine this, with an increased presence of homelessness, which is highly visible, it is clear to me that, housing reform is required.
Do you think so?
With the upcoming state government election, what can the state government do to help our city address these and other housing challenges?
It is my view; they can play a significant role in housing reforms.
How?
They can and should be far more active in public housing delivery (using an integrated housing model). Planning regulation redesign, stamp duty and land tax reforms. Enhanced regional infrastructure support, and greater accountability for decision makers.
What may that look like?
A fast-track process for housing planning approvals and disputes, stamp tax concession, increased private sector delivery in public housing, a regional infrastructure fund, enhanced accountability and clearer delineation of responsibilities around planning and land supply decisions, and increased land supply competitiveness.
How does that sound?
Locally, in the words of a small business owner, we need a: ‘Long term vision and planning to make our region strong into the future.”
I concur. We need a strong local and regional vision. Housing is a critical component of any future vision. Why? Because the decisions we make around housing, impacts on how we move around a place, how we recreate and work, how we engage with others, and plays an important role in our health and well-being of ourselves and the city.
What is your housing solution(s)?
Share them with us at admin@toowoombachamber.com.au
