New Low and Mid-Rise Housing Reforms Introduced in Lismore Electorate
Robert Heyward
The Minns Labor Government’s first wave of low and mid-rise housing reforms has come into effect across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) within the Lismore Electorate, bringing expanded housing options to the region.
Janelle Saffin, Member for Lismore, highlighted the significance of the changes, which now permit development applications for dual occupancies and semi-detached dwellings in more R2 low-density residential zones.
“This is an important reform that provides more housing options suitable to people’s needs across our region,” said Ms. Saffin. The new housing policies aim to offer families and individuals more flexibility, especially those looking for extra space or wishing to stay within their community as their housing needs evolve.
Key benefits of the reforms include:
- Multi-generational housing: Families needing more space can now explore dual occupancy options, potentially curbing the outflow of young people from the area.
- Downsizing opportunities: Well-designed dual occupancies create avenues for downsizes to remain in their local communities, contributing to a diverse housing mix.
- Increased housing capacity: Property owners with suitable blocks can double their housing potential by adding a second dwelling or replacing one home with two, easing housing pressures in the region.
Ms. Saffin emphasised the critical role these reforms play in addressing housing shortages in flood-affected towns and cities, where the need for diverse and affordable housing options is acute.
“This broader range of housing options will benefit everyone—renters, families, empty-nesters, and single people—providing more flexibility and choices,” she added.
Effective from July 1, 2024, the reforms require councils to focus on increasing housing supply and offering more choice. However, local councils will retain the responsibility of assessing individual development applications.
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