17 July 2024
Southern Downs Regional Council is inviting feedback from the community, the local building and development industry and community service organisations with a survey regarding the potential of small homes in the region.
The survey aims to gather valuable feedback to guide Council’s decision-making process concerning minimum dwelling sizes and related policies.
Mayor Melissa Hamilton said that the survey will ensure the voices of residents, industry professionals and community support professionals are heard before any decisions are made.
"We believe it is essential to obtain comprehensive feedback from the community and all relevant stakeholders,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“Gathering feedback from all sectors of the community will help Council make informed decisions that reflect the needs and preferences of our residents.”
Councillor Joel Richters said that our region is struggling to provide affordable housing options, and Council is considering all options available to ease this pressure.
“Regional Queensland areas such as the Southern Downs have seen considerable housing pressures during and post COVID-19 due to inward migration, cost of living pressures and large infrastructure projects,” Cr Richters said.
“Along with the rising cost of living, the housing shortage has placed additional pressure on community wellbeing.”
The survey will focus on understanding community attitudes towards small homes which are becoming increasingly popular as affordable and sustainable housing options.
Key topics will include the appropriate minimum size for primary residences and the potential impact on local amenity and character.
Council currently has set the minimum size for a house at 35 square metres. Neighbouring Councils don’t have a minimum size for a house and are guided by the requirements under the building legislation.
Council is committed to considering modern housing trends and community expectations while ensuring that any new policies align with regional planning objectives and take into consideration the outcomes of the Southern Downs Planning Scheme review.
“I urge all Southern Downs residents, members of the building industry, growers, aged care facilities and community groups to participate in this important survey,” Councillor Richters added.
The survey can be completed online or hard copies are available from Council’s Customer Service Centres and the Southern Downs Libraries in Allora, Warwick and Stanthorpe. Closing date: 5pm Friday 2 August 2024.
Last edited date 20 Aug 2024