Home truths invited on affordable housing plan

THE City of Greater Bendigo (CoGB) is inviting community feedback on its updated Affordable Housing Action Plan, with public consultation open until Sunday 10 May.

According to City staff, like many areas across Victoria and Australia, Greater Bendigo is experiencing high levels of homelessness and housing stress, and in response it has amended the plan to strengthen partnerships and support the delivery of more affordable housing.

The refreshed plan focuses on practical and achievable actions aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing, providing a broader mix of accommodation types and creating more choice for current and future residents.

CoGB strategic planning manager Anthony Petherbridge said housing affordability was one of the most significant issues facing Bendigo.

“We know this is a crucial issue for our community, so we’re working to encourage more homes, different types of homes and more choice for current and future residents,” he said.

“By working in partnership with government agencies, industry and community services, we can take meaningful steps toward improving housing outcomes in Greater Bendigo.

“The draft Affordable Housing Action Plan is available for comment on the City’s Let’s Talk website.”

The Salvation Army’s Social Justice Stocktake 2025 found that 32.4 per cent of Bendigo residents identified housing affordability and homelessness as an issue for themselves.

The report said the best estimates available suggest there are around 670 people experiencing homelessness locally with an unmet housing need of 3,400 dwellings.

If you need immediate assistance with housing, contact the Victorian Statewide Homelessness Line on 1800 825 955.

The service is available 24 hours a day.

Visit letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au to provide feedback.