Plan outlines measures to tackle housing crisis

THE city’s new Affordable Housing Action Plan 2026–2028 has been adopted by Greater Bendigo council.

The two-year plan outlines a number of measures designed to address the need for more affordable and social housing in the region while challenging the stigma around homelessness, rough sleeping and housing stress in the community.

It also includes three flagship projects: partnering in a Housing Australia Future Fund bid working with housing providers, youth, health and community wellbeing organisations, making building small homes easier, and improving narratives around homelessness.

Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the plan focuses on practical actions.

“Affordability and availability of housing is an issue of national significance and high local importance in the community,” he said.

“By working in partnership with government agencies, industry and community services, we can take meaningful steps toward improving housing levels in the region, supporting vulnerable people and building a stronger, more inclusive Greater Bendigo.”

A mixed offering of houses is considered to be needed in Bendigo to meet community needs, including family homes, smaller houses, apartments, and flexible living options.

Demand currently far exceeds the amount of social housing currently available and, as homelessness and housing insecurity increase, a wide range of people are having trouble finding housing, often for the first time.

More than 800 people are homeless or at risk in Greater Bendigo and over 2,400 are using homeless services.

Older women are one of the fastest-growing groups experiencing homelessness.

Visit the CoGB website for the full details.