Melbourne's Housing Density Reform Sees Latest Developments and What Happened This Week

This week, the Victorian government announced plans to amend the Melbourne Planning Scheme to allow for increased density in select areas, including the St Kilda Road precinct and the Brunswick Activity Centre. The move is part of a broader effort to address Melbourne's housing affordability crisis, with the government aiming to build 70,000 new homes by 2028.

The push for increased density is driven by Melbourne's rapid population growth, which has put pressure on the city's housing stock and driven up prices. According to data from the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, the median house price in Melbourne has risen to $1.1 million, making it difficult for first-home buyers to enter the market. The government's reforms aim to increase the supply of housing, particularly in areas with good access to public transport, jobs, and services.

Local Implications

In Melbourne's inner-north, the suburb of Brunswick is set to see significant changes under the government's plans. The Brunswick Activity Centre, which includes Sydney Road and the surrounding streets, will be rezoned to allow for higher-density development, including apartments and townhouses. Similarly, the St Kilda Road precinct, which stretches from the Melbourne CBD to St Kilda Junction, will see increased density, with plans for new high-rise developments along the road. Other areas, such as the Carlton and Fitzroy neighbourhoods, will also be targeted for increased density, with a focus on preserving the character of these historic suburbs.

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Melbourne's population is projected to grow by 2.3 million people over the next 20 years, putting pressure on the city's infrastructure and services. To address this, the government has committed to investing $10 billion in new infrastructure, including public transport, schools, and community facilities. The City of Melbourne has also launched a number of initiatives aimed at preserving liveability, including the $200 million Greening Melbourne plan, which aims to increase the city's tree canopy and reduce urban heat island effects.

In terms of specific numbers, the government's reforms aim to increase the number of dwellings in Melbourne by 30% over the next decade, with a focus on apartments and townhouses. According to a report by the Victorian Auditor-General's Office, the average cost of building a new apartment in Melbourne is around $450,000, while the average cost of building a new house is around $650,000. The government's reforms aim to reduce these costs by streamlining the planning process and increasing the supply of land for development.

So what happens next? The government's plans will be subject to public consultation and feedback, with a final decision expected later this year. In the meantime, residents and developers are advised to stay informed about the reforms and how they may impact their local area. The City of Melbourne has established a website and hotline for people to provide feedback and ask questions, and the government has committed to working closely with local communities to ensure that the reforms are implemented in a way that preserves liveability and character.