Delayed decision-making, bureaucratic dithering, and the stubborn resistance of NIMBYs have all been frequently cited as planning-related barriers to the development of much-needed housing. Seldom, however, does the conversation shift to the impact that containment and densification policies are having upon Australia’s escalating housing crisis.
Against a backdrop of rapid population growth, and in the face of rising social and economic costs, the ‘contain-and-densify’ approach to managing our cities is, simply, no longer fit for purpose. It is increasingly clear that a departure from this entrenched model is crucial. Left unaddressed, the downward spiral that is this nation’s housing crisis will continue, leaving the aspirations of an ever-growing number of Australians in its wake.
The path forward demands a nuanced, evidence-based approach that reconciles the urgent need for affordable housing with practical urban development strategies. Only then can we ensure a future where housing affordability and accessibility are within reach of all Australians, marking a pivotal shift towards a genuinely successful model of urban growth.
Beyond Boundaries
Urban growth boundaries (UGBs) are artificial regional boundaries, enforced by authorities to contain the development of residential and other urban uses of land to mandated areas. They have been a cornerstone of urban planning policy in Australian cities since they were first introduced by the Victorian Government’s Melbourne 2030 policy in 2002. Since its introduction, the contain-and-densify model has been unable to deliver the number of dwellings required, the type of dwellings sought, or housing in the locations intended. The social engineering required to force households into smaller housing is proving to be both politically unworkable and financially unfeasible.
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Rob Burgess is a town planner with over 25 years of experience, having worked in both the public and private sectors. Applying evidence-based insights, Rob’s expertise lies at the intersection of population dynamics, town planning, and property markets. He is regularly engaged to undertake market research, provide strategic advice to clients, and sharing his thoughts on current and future trends. Rob is a Principal with Quantify Strategic Insights.
Photo: from the article cover, courtesy the author
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