Community Housing Industry Association Victoria has welcomed the Andrews Government beginning conversations about slashing red tape for the building industry, urging it to take the chance to help create a pipeline for more social and affordable housing.
The Victorian Government is reportedly in talks with developer stakeholders about overhauling planning and building contract laws to cut building delays and lower the risk of cost blowouts.
CHIA Vic acting CEO Jason Perdriau said any discussions should grasp the opportunity to restart a conversation on using planning mechanisms to contribute to the ongoing construction of social housing.
“Now more than ever, Victorians need more social and affordable housing as they live through the chronic housing crisis. The Build Housing Build has been a momentous start but progress can’t stop there,” Mr Perdriau said.
“Reforms to streamline construction creates an opportunity to future proof our planning system, and ensure that when the market picks up again we’ve got a steady stream of affordable housing being built for all Victorians.
“Streamlining planning processes for the building industry is welcome and we fully support the Government looking at ways to speed up residential construction to address the housing crisis. However this should include consideration of how the planning system can contribute to the growth of social and affordable housing in Victoria.”
