No easy fix for worker housing crisis

LORNE traders say a key worker shortage is still having a drastic impact on their businesses, one year after Surf Coast Shire council declared an accommodation crisis to tackle the problem.

But the council says work is ongoing for short, medium and long-term solutions to open up more affordable housing for local staff.

A motion from Lorne Ward councillor Gary Allen in May last year identified unmet need of around 100 staff across Lorne’s accommodation and hospitality sectors.

Lorne Business and Tourism Association chair and hospitality business owner Bryce Newcombe indicated the figure had likely worsened in the year since as local businesses continued struggles to attract staff.

“We had to close two days this week because we just didn’t have enough staff,” he said.

“This (week) I put out four job adverts, and I’ve already got four running, so it’s not good.

“We all seem to be one injury away from having to close; whether that’s one flu, or with one COVID, or one person cuts their finger.

“That’s enough at the moment to tip us over and having to shut the premises.”

Childcare and medical sectors are among those that have also reported challenges attracting staff in recent months.

A committee including Lorne advocacy groups, the council, state agencies including the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority will resume meetings in coming weeks to continue investigating solutions.

One such method under investigation includes a land trust model, which would investigate opening Crown land or privately donated blocks for short-term accommodation.

The council will also continue discussions with state authorities as part of drafting a long-term housing strategy.

“It’s important to remember that the shortage of affordable housing is a national issue,” the council’s place making general manager Chris Pike said.

“We are interested to see the Victorian Government’s release of its 10-year Social and Affordable Housing Strategy later this month.

“As we look ahead to next summer we will very much rely on the Victorian Government’s investment in trial initiatives such as cabin-style accommodation for seasonal workers.”

The council has already changed to local laws that allow camping on residential land for up to 120 days.

It is also exploring an “adopt a worker” scheme and allowing private land to host tiny homes on wheels for short-term accommodation.

Council-owned land is also under investigation for social housing suitability, such as at Fraser Drive, Aireys Inlet, though land is in short supply due to a range of planning provisions including bushfire overlays.