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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationGentle density: a new tool to easing Australia's housing crisis
Gentle density: a new tool to easing Australia's housing crisis
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“The Housing Industry Association (HIA) is calling for smarter urban planning that allows for more townhouses, micro-lot houses, and triplexes in established suburbs, with minimal disruption to the character of those suburbs.
“Gentle density is about building more homes in existing suburbs – close to education facilities , jobs, and transport – while maintaining the charm of our communities.
“With Australia facing a severe shortage in housing availability and affordability, ‘gentle density’ provides a balanced approach by optimising land use and introducing diverse housing options.
“Current zoning laws are outdated and restrictive, often leaving Australians with limited choices between sprawling houses or towering apartment blocks. Gentle density bridges this gap by supporting middle-ground housing options like townhouses and small-scale apartments.
“Planning must be able to deliver on the big picture and use the right tools in the right locations, this means balancing housing needs both in the inner suburbs and greenfield.
“HIA has released a report into gentle density and is urging state and local governments to adopt forward-thinking policies that encourage this type of development.
“Australia needs to build 1.2 million homes over the next five years to meet growing demand. Unblocking housing in our existing suburbs is a crucial piece of that puzzle.
“By streamlining approval processes and allowing for more flexible zoning, we can unlock the potential of our existing suburbs alongside greenfield housing and create vibrant, liveable communities for generations to come,” concluded Mr Hermon.
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New rules add thousands to the cost of a new home as Tasmania falls years behind on housing
From today, every new home built in Tasmania must meet the full Livable Housing Design requirements. The Housing Industry Association says this adds thousands of dollars to the cost of building a home, at a time when Tasmanians can least afford it.
Rules for managing the risk of falls have changed - are you up to date?
Changes to Western Australia's requirements for managing the risks of falls will commence on 1 October 2026, introducing new expectations for builders, contractors and workers undertaking tasks where there is a risk of falling.
Livable Housing Design: final stage now in force
As of today, 1 October 2026, all new building work in Tasmania, unless exempt, must comply with all requirements of Part H8 Livable Housing Design of NCC Volume Two.
ACT housing approvals slump puts 2030 target under pressure
“The ACT’s housing supply pipeline is weakening, with building approvals in the three months to August halving compared with a year earlier,” said HIA Executive Director ACT and Southern NSW, Geordan Murray.