2021-12-13 GC Agenda - Item 8 -Attachment 1 - Housing Needs Assessment

that development of higher density housing or community housing should not be in the particular
place they value.
If residents of Noosa Shire consider their preferred future in terms of place and lifestyle, they might
realise there are many elements dependent on the services of others. We could refer to all these as
key workers. Some key workers earn lower incomes and simply cannot afford to live in Noosa Shire,
or even live close enough for a reasonable commute. This will have an impact on the lifestyle of
residents in the future if housing choice and affordability is not addressed. Therefore, residents and
property owners are encouraged to consider their own future needs and the needs of others, the
wider community and future generations.
2.5         Role of Local Government in Housing
All levels of government contribute to shaping local housing markets and have a role to play in
promoting better housing outcomes. Whilst the primary responsibility for housing policy and housing
funding lies with the Commonwealth and State Governments, Local Governments may play a role
in facilitating housing delivery and promoting the provision/retention of affordable housing.
Noosa Council’s Corporate Plan 2018 includes a vision statement of Noosa Shire – Different by
Nature, which sets an aspirational tone for future planning and thinking. To achieve this vision, it is
implied Council needs to successfully adapt to whatever challenges arise.
There is in 2021 a housing crisis throughout Australia and Queensland is particularly affected. Data
shows there are over 50,000 people on the state’s social housing register and communities
throughout the State are experiencing very low rental vacancies. Neither the Commonwealth nor
State Governments are going to be able to redress this problem in a brief time frame nor without
significant investment.
The housing crisis is seen by the current Noosa Council as one of the most significant challenges it
is likely to face. Accordingly like many other local governments, it is looking for ways to be part of
the solution so that Noosa Shire may remain a safe, inclusive community into the future.
The level of involvement Council takes will have a direct correlation to the quantum of resources it
decides to commit to the problem. Figure 7 shows the spectrum of resources required from
‘Recognise’ escalating through to ‘Deliver’ being the highest commitment.
Council has started to monitor the housing market, although not with a consistent and in-depth level
of rigour that comes through a committed resource. Council, and the local State member for Noosa
have sought progress from the State government in terms of both policy change and greater
investment in housing. Engagement with other Councils, as well as the Local Government
Association of Queensland is ongoing. The Noosa Plan 2020 includes some shifts in policy towards
regulation, however stops short of a level of regulation that was hoped for in terms of delivering more
social housing. While Council enjoys good working relationships with housing providers no formal
partnerships have been formed or housing delivered. Assistance with the SHINE9 houses and
facilitation of the YouTurn tiny homes are examples of small scale achievements.




9 Safe Housing in Noosa Everyday vital crisis accommodation for women and children escaping domestic and

family violence


Noosa Housing Needs Assessment 2021                                                             Page 21