Supporting affordable and diverse housing for a growing population

To ensure there is a robust plan for how and where housing is delivered to meet the needs of the community now and into the future, AlburyCity has developed a Draft Local Housing Strategy.

The strategy was developed using a research-based approach, in close consultation with the local community, as well as key Government, development industry and community sector organisations, through polls and surveys, drop-in sessions, phone interviews, and industry forums.

An intensive background analysis of Albury's current housing market was also undertaken and considered in the development of the strategy.

Key findings include:

By 2036, the Albury population will surpass 70,000 people, requiring more than 8,000 new dwellings over the next 15 years.In the last 5 years, people aged over 65 years has increased by almost 2% to total around 20%, meaning more housing options are needed for older residents who are retired or close to retirement.More than half of households consist of one to two people at 66%, however less than half have one or two bedrooms at 44%, meaning the need for a greater diversity of housing types to cater for single or two-person households.People are expecting more resilient housing including sustainable and environmentally friendly options, as well as adaptable housing to suit changing lifestyles such as working from home and visitor accommodation.Housing is becoming more expensive, with the median rent and buying costs rising over recent years.More affordable housing options are needed, with wait lists for social housing currently sitting at five to ten years, and only around 3% of housing being affordable for households on very low incomes.

The strategy notes that Albury is well set up and prepared for a pipeline of future land supply in Thurgoona Wirlinga, with approximately 1,400 hectares of appropriately zoned land still available, providing around 40 years of future supply.

Whilst acknowledging the growth area in Thurgoona Wirlinga, it also encourages more development in established areas to provide new housing options close to existing services and facilities.

The strategy also builds on AlburyCity's recent partnership with the NSW Land and Housing Corporation, signing a collaboration agreement to fast-track 540 social and affordable homes, and around 700 homes for the private market in Albury.

Mayor Kylie King said the Draft Local Housing Strategy contains a range of actions that Council can take to support housing across the city.

"This includes future planning to support growth, reviewing development controls to identify any impediments for smaller dwellings, education and support for developers to assist with providing more diverse housing options, as well as advocating to other levels of Government," explained Mayor King.

"We know our community is crying out for more affordable and diverse housing right across our city, and we will continue to work hard to ensure everyone has access to a suitable home that meets their needs," Mayor King said.

Feedback is invited on the draft Local Housing Strategy by making a submission online, in writing, or by booking an appointment with one of Council's Planners.

The strategy can be viewed on the AlburyCity website, at the AlburyCity Head Office, the Albury LibraryMuseum or the Lavington Library, or by contacting Council on 02 6023 8111 or [email protected].

Submissions close 5pm Monday 13 February 2023.