Federal definition of "well located areas" and "medium density" must encourage inner-city, Parisian density

YIMBY Melbourne is enthusiastic to see the Federal Government echo and amplify the Andrews Government's calls for nation-wide supply-side reform. 

Higher densities around public transport hubs, such as the Suburban Rail Loop, will be key—but truly sustainable reforms that look to the nation's future must go further. Higher densities right across our inner city, filling in our Parisian Missing Middle, is needed to build enough housing to meet existing and future housing needs.

"A world-class liveable city is one where entire neighbourhoods are full of energy and community. It's not towers around train stations and then flat suburbs in between—it's Parisian, mixed-use, dynamic, and exciting."

We need a clear national definition of affordable housing

Current definitions of affordable housing, social housing, and medium density vary constantly between stakeholders. Affordable housing definitions include:

• Housing that is "appropriate for the needs of very low-, low- and moderate-income households" (Planning and Environment Act)
• No more than 30% of a household's total Centrelink Income (Homes Victoria)
• No more than 30% of a given low, very low, or moderate household income (CHIA Victoria)
• 10% below market rate (Homes Victoria Affordable)

Clear definitions indexed to regional income will be essential for nation-wide provision of truly abundant and affordable housing for all. 

Ambitious housing targets can't be one-off—this must be the new norm

YIMBY Melbourne welcomes the ambitious new housing target incentivised by the Federal Government. We call on these targets to be a well-enforced and cross-partisan norm moving forward. The Federal Government must create departmental and legislative infrastructure that enforces these targets long-term. Providing more homes where people want to live benefits all Australians, and creating housing abundance will ensure that Australia is a country that works for all citizens, present and future.