Lorne workshops aim to improve housing affordability

THE Surf Coast Shire is running workshops in Lorne with the goal of improving housing affordability for key and essential workers in the municipality.

A shortage of long-term accommodation in the area is not a new issue for the community, with similar sessions held in 2023 in an effort to find a solution.

A recent inquiry into Victoria’s regional housing supply found almost 70 per cent of homes in Lorne are empty during the off-season with house prices around the $1.8 million price range, deterring many essential workers from living in the area.

The first of two workshops took place last week, where 13 community representatives attended and were involved with discussions.

Shire acting general manager place making and environment Gabby Spiller said the workshops aimed to define the housing issues and see what could be done at a local level to make a difference.

“Growing housing unaffordability in Lorne is forcing lower and middle income families to choose to live elsewhere.

“Businesses are unable to attract and retain workers which affects service availability and quality.”

After the first workshop, the group had a drafted problem statement to guide the generation of ideas, with the second workshop aiming to have a preferred project to progress with.

“The community will identify the preferred project and, if clearly supported, Council can confirm budget allocation of $50,000,” Ms Spiller said.

“Depending on what the project is, an advocacy and funding strategy may be implemented to leverage Council’s investment.”

The final goal is to contribute to affordable, long term rental options to help improve service access, business viability and economic performance.

The next workshop will be held on Monday, July 21.