Community Insight Sought To Ensure Future Housing Stock Meets Changing Needs

Mackay Regional Council has released the draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy, aiming to address a growing mismatch between current housing stock and the evolving needs of residents. The strategy is designed to create more diverse, accessible, and affordable housing across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.

A recent review of local housing trends highlighted a key concern: while 60 per cent of households in the region comprise just one to two people, only 18 per cent of current housing caters to this demographic. In contrast, 85 per cent of existing homes are detached dwellings, with 90 per cent of those offering three or more bedrooms. Detached homes have dominated the market, making up 95 per cent of all building approvals since 2015.

Mayor Greg Williamson said smaller households are expected to be the biggest growth segment over the next two decades, and housing supply must evolve to match.

“What this strategy aims to do is ensure there is greater diversity of housing in well-located areas, with good access to employment, shops, community services, parklands and public transport,” he said.

“It’s well documented that our community’s housing needs are changing and community feedback is critical to guide future planning and development.

“Residents are the primary users of housing and bring lived experience and knowledge that can help inform our planning decisions.”

Mayor Williamson also stressed the importance of enabling older residents to age in place, saying a variety of housing types – including townhouses, units and multi-dwelling blocks – is essential for liveability and affordability.

The draft strategy not only focuses on future needs but also seeks to address why many approved residential lots remain undeveloped.

“There are almost 5,000 residential lots with a form of planning approval that are yet to be developed,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This backlog isn’t new. In fact, the number of undeveloped lots has sat at more than 4,000 since 2008.”

He added, “It’s important to note that while council administers the Planning Scheme, it doesn’t build houses. Housing is a shared responsibility between council, developers and other stakeholders like the State Government.”

In support of housing development, the region is also set to benefit from $41.66 million in funding under the Crisafulli Government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund (RAF). The funding will accelerate eight critical infrastructure projects across Mackay and the Whitsundays, enabling new housing in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Marian, Mirani, Sarina, Beaconsfield and Rural View.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said, “The Crisafulli Government’s landmark $2 billion Residential Activation Fund is delivering for Mackay and the Whitsundays with a $41.66 million investment set to fast-track eight critical projects and unlock much-needed housing for Queenslanders.”

‍