WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 - Connecting 150,000 WA households to a home by 2030 - Department of Communities
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WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 Connecting 150,000 WA households to a home by 2030
Message Western Australia, with its rich diversity of cultures
from the and environments, is a great place to live and work.
Minister
Central to this is the place we call home.
i | Department of Communities
A home is so much more than a roof over our heads. A safe, The package includes $319 million to build, buy, renovate and
stable, sustainable home is key to a good life and fundamental maintain social housing throughout WA. This will refurbish 1,500
to our wellbeing. social homes, deliver about 250 new dwellings and rollout a
regional maintenance program for 3,800 social homes.
Homes are essential infrastructure and provide a foundation
for sustainable communities, connecting people to opportunity The package will be delivered concurrently with the previously
through social integration and economic participation. The announced $150 million Housing Investment Package and the
potential flow-on benefits to other systems – health, education, $394 million METRONET Social and Affordable Housing and
justice and employment – are enormous. Jobs Package.
Despite significant investment, housing affordability remains Rapid changes to the economy due to COVID-19 have
an ongoing issue and our homes are not diverse enough to reinforced the need for Western Australia to have an agile,
meet our changing needs. adaptable housing system; ready to cope with a rapidly
changing environment.
The impact is felt across our community, from young people
wanting to find their first home, key workers needing to be Through this major investment, the McGowan Government
closer to jobs, older people looking to age with choice and those is showing the strength of our commitment to better meet
with specific housing and support needs. For households on low WA’s current housing needs and create secure futures for the
incomes, housing and living costs can create significant stress. generations that follow.
The COVID-19 worldwide pandemic of early 2020 dramatically WA is a national leader in affordable housing. Over the last
changed the socio-economic landscape of the State and as a decade, the WA Government has made available more than
result many Western Australians are doing it tough. 35,000 housing opportunities. Building on this strong platform
is critical to our future success.
The McGowan Government is working to
ensure all Western Australians have an This strategy sets the direction for the next 10 years recognising
opportunity to share in our State’s prosperity that we have a mutual obligation to work together. It commits to:
and recognises housing as a key enabler of
• connecting 150,000 WA households to a home
social and economic recovery.
• building liveable, inclusive and connected communities
In June 2020 we announced an immediate that improve social and economic participation
$444 million housing stimulus package
to kickstart Western Australia's economic • creating jobs and contributing to the State’s economy
recovery and support the building and • improving outcomes through a more integrated approach
construction sectors. This is expected to to housing and service assistance.
create 4,300 jobs across the State.
With strong leadership and collaboration between all sectors
and our communities, we will provide housing choices and
pathways for all Western Australians.
Hon Peter Tinley AM MLA
Minister for Housing; Fisheries;
Veterans Issues; Asian Engagement
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | ii
Acknowledgements
Acknowledgement of Country Our contributors
The WA Government acknowledges the traditional Thank you to all the organisations and individuals who participated in the
custodians throughout WA and their continuing connection consultation and contributed to the development of the strategy, including:
to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects
• the people with lived experience who shared their personal
to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their
stories in this document, as well as all those who contributed to
cultures; and to Elders both past and present.
consultation activities
• the Housing Strategy Working Group comprising individuals from
the community sector and industry, who provided an independent
perspective on housing challenges across the State and how the
WA Government could respond
• Shelter WA and the Youth Advisory Council of WA for supporting
the consultation process
• the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute’s (AHURI)
Curtin Research Centre who conducted an independent evaluation
of the WA Government’s 2010 Affordable Housing Strategy.i
i
Affordable Housing Strategy 2010-2020: Opening Doors to Affordable Housing, WA Government, Department of Housing
iii | Department of Communities
Contents
Message from the Minister i Our approach 13 Focus area 5: Housing pathways 41
Building on our success 13
Acknowledgements iii Bringing the strategy to life 45
Connecting to whole-of-government
Why we need a strategy 1 priorities and outcomes 15 What the strategy means for
our regions and remote communities 47
The importance of home 5 Outcomes 17
Past achievements 48
Consultation summary 6 Tailored housing responses 19
Partnership and innovations 49
What we heard 7 The five focus areas of the strategy 23
Lessons learned 51
Strategy at a glance 9 Focus area 1: Supply 25
Appendix 1:
Our future housing system 11 Focus area 2: Design 29 list of strategies and initiatives 52
Focus area 3: Housing literacy 33 Glossary 53
Focus area 4: Access 37 References 55
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | iv
Why we need a strategy
The WA housing system has
Affordability is reached a defining point
High social and an entrenched
Despite significant investment in housing across all sectors,
economic costs structural issue many households are unable to connect to a home that
meets their needs. This is driven by personal and systemic
barriers which reduce housing choice and prevent access.
Housing affordability is an entrenched structural issue. Since
A greater 2000, house prices in Perth have increased more than 200
number of per cent, with minimum wages only increasing by 92 per cent.
people require Over the same period, rental prices have increased 135 per
assistance to cent, with Newstart allowance* only increasing by 69 per cent1
connect to as outlined in figure 1 on the following page.
a home The economic impact of the COVID-19 health crisis has been
Social and Personal felt by WA households, perhaps none more so than those who
are renting. While many Western Australians aspire to home
demographic and systemic
ownership, more people are accessing the rental market.
changes barriers
The low volume of vacant rental properties before COVID-19
Social housing stock was limiting tenants’ ability to find homes that were affordable
levels declining and suitable to their needs. WA now faces an increase in
demand for rentals with vacancy rates at their lowest in nearly
a decade.
* From 20 March 2020 the Newstart allowance was replaced by the JobSeeker Payment.
1 | Department of Communities
This is likely to push up prices and result in an This is driven by an ageing population,
increased demand for social housing. There changes in household sizes and compositions,
may be a further demand on social housing changes in home ownership patterns and Remote communities
and homelessness services when temporary changing needs within the community. As a
support programs initiated through the result, a greater number of people will require
There are about
COVID-19 crisis come to an end*. assistance to connect to a home as outlined in
Providing social housing requires significant
figure 2 on page 3. 274 remote WA communities
ongoing investment and need continues to The social and economic costs of housing
outstrip supply. Over the last decade, the WA stress and homelessness are well documented.3
Government has invested more than $3.6 Approximately:
billion into more than 7,200 social homes, with The State’s vast geographical size, diverse
regions and many remote communities, add 12,000 Aboriginal
a land value over $500 million at the time of people reside in 274
construction.2 Despite this, social housing a layer of complexity. WA’s unique economy
creates challenges within the housing system. remote communities
stock levels had not significantly increased.
This was due to a number of factors, including 3,000 Aboriginal
The strategy will drive a more agile housing
managing an ageing asset portfolio. residents reside in 38
system to suit our changing environment.
Working towards this future is our mutual town-based communities
Lack of housing diversity and the ability to
easily adapt homes is restricting the agility obligation for everyone, across government Kimberley
of the WA housing system to keep pace with industry, the community sector and the
changing demands and conditions. WA community.
Pilbara
Figure 1:
Housing affordability in Perth since 2000
%
Midwest
200 Perth median
house price
150
Goldfields
Perth median rent
100
Minimum wage
50
Newstart
0
19
00
01
02
08
03
04
05
06
09
10
16
07
11
12
13
14
17
18
15
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
Sources: ABS, DSS, Fair Work Commission, REIWA Source: Department of Communities, 2019
*The Commonwealth JobKeeper program, which commenced on 30 March 2020, is currently due to end on 28 March 2021.
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 2
Figure 2:
Homelessness Supported
Overview of housing supply and need housing
across the housing continuum in WA
In 2020, one in five (200,000) households
are estimated to need some form
of housing assistance from the WA
Government. By 2030, 45,000 additional
households are likely to need assistance.
(Department of Communities internal modelling, 2019) Crisis Social
accommodation housing
Homelessness Supported
In 2017 In 2019...
and crisis
accommodation
housing and
social housing
794
provided
• 3000+ people in
Community Disability
Housing (Department of
>
Communities 2014)
Community beds for
By 2025
people with mental • 1300+ people estimated
9,005 people health, alcohol and
other drug issues
911
more needed
to require Specialist
Disability Accommodation
through the NDIS
experiencing homelessness on Census night 2016. Of these: (MHC, 2018)
(Summer Foundation 2019)
In 2019...
• 471 people under the age
1,950 persons staying
3,871 in ‘severely’
temporarily with
43,198 Social homes of 65 in residential aged
crowded dwellings care (Summer Foundation 2019)
991 persons living in other households
boarding houses 1,083 sleeping rough
+ 13,795 Social housing applicants on the waitlist • 5 people each week under
the age of 65 entering
1,054 in accommodation 51 persons in aged care as no supported
for the homeless temporary lodgings + 4,000 Households eligible for social housing not on the waitlist
housing options available
(ABS Census, 2016) (Department of Communities, 2019) (Summer Foundation 2019)
3 | Department of CommunitiesAffordable Affordable home
rental ownership Affordable and
market home
ownership
FOR
Since 1989
100,000+
RENT
households have
accessed low-deposit
home loans
through Keystart
(Keystart, 2019)
Market Market
rental home ownership
Since 2000
Projected 60% increase in Wages have doubled,
Affordable
FOR
RENT and market To 2026 By 2031
households on low incomes
receiving Commonwealth Rent
while median house
prices have tripled 3x
rental
2x
Assistance (AHURI, 2019) (Department of
Communities, 2019)
28.3
4,000+ rentals
in WA are provided Rental Stress
through NRAS,
which ends
occupied private in 2026
homes are rented
(ABS Census, 2016)
(Department of
Communities, 2019)
68% 57% 43%
80%
Between 2006 and
2016 the number
Additional of people aged 55+
27,600 Renters on very
low incomes in
Renters on low
incomes in
Renters in
regional WA in
with a mortgage
increased nearly
affordable rentals needed housing stress housing stress housing stress 80% to over 95,000
on Census night 2016* (ABS Census, 2016)
(Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre, 2019, ABS, 2016)
(Department of Communities, 2019)
*Based on the modelled need (of unmet demand) for affordable housing from the Component Demand Model (2016), a Census-based internal model developed by Department of Communities. WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 4The importance of home When is a home
A home is key to a thriving life. It can support good health, wellbeing, affordable?
education and employment outcomes. A home needs to be:
Affordable housing is not just about price – it
is about what people can afford relative to their
Safe: Stable: Sustainable: income. Put simply, it means households on
low to moderate incomes can afford to access
free from violence, provides a base, affordable for people to
a suitable home while meeting other essential
fear and danger free from uncertainty access and live in and
living costs.
and where people over the security connected to community,
feel secure of tenure transport, work and services Generally, households should spend no more
than 30 per cent of income on housing. For
example, a household on $45,000 per annum
can only afford to pay $250 per week in rent
without experiencing housing stress. Affordable
housing differs across a range of housing
Without a safe, stable, sustainable home it The way homes are designed and built is
options and tenures; it is not just social housing.
is difficult to keep a family safe, access or integral to creating sustainable communities
sustain a job, or maintain independence in that are liveable and inclusive. Linking homes
older age. to economic opportunities supports local
and regional prosperity.
For many people, a sudden or unplanned
change in circumstances can place For this reason, the strategy takes a
them at risk or lead to housing stress whole-of-government approach to create
and homelessness. These situations a more agile housing system, enabling all
can contribute to a health condition or Western Australians to have the opportunity
make it harder to manage an existing one. to share in the State’s prosperity.
Accessing services is difficult without a
stable home, and a lack of housing options
can make it hard to leave unsafe situations. Connecting to a home is
Investing in housing, especially for people about providing support
with greater needs, creates flow-on and assistance to enable
benefits and avoids high costs in other
government services including aged care, people to find, access and
hospitals and the justice system.4 sustain a home.
5 | Department of CommunitiesConsultation summary 6 surveys
general, youth, local
government authority,
student, strategy
More than exhibition, community
600
More than housing providers
individual stakeholders
200
organisations Broome
Kununurra
300
with
Port Hedland responses
11
Karratha Newman
15
Overview of
10x
snap polls with
regional consultation
workshops
lived experience
in Peel, Newman, Kalgoorlie,
Geraldton, Karratha, Bunbury, Geraldton Northam
2,124
responses
workshops Port Hedland, Albany, Broome,
Kununurra, Northam
Perth
Peel
Kalgoorlie
Bunbury
Albany
36
1 public
41
reaching exhibition with
x
49,026 66
posts on
social media metropolitan
workshops and
people presentations attendees
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 6What we heard
There is significant demand for short-stay accommodation
and housing options in regional centres
Housing is a key contributor of economic growth across WA
and is an important source of jobs, now and in the future
Discrimination can make it hard to access the rental market
Good design is important to creating homes that meet
people’s needs, are culturally appropriate and respond to
environmental and climate conditions
We need to grow WA’s social housing safety net
Timely access to accurate information enables people
to make informed decisions in choosing a home
7 | Department of CommunitiesAffordability relates to both affordable housing options and
living costs
Lack of housing diversity reduces choice and is a key issue
in many WA communities
We are expecting a generation of renters so it is essential
we create more opportunities for longer-term rentals that
suit tenants and landlords
Navigating the housing system can be difficult and some people
ice
need support that will assist them to find and sustain a home
vo
u r
O It is not enough to focus on home ownership – to create
choice, we need a range of stable homes across all tenures
WA’s community housing sector complements the housing
system; building on their strengths is fundamental
Planning, land use and tax settings need adjusting to
deliver and enable access to affordable housing
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 8Strategy at a glance
Connecting 150,000 WA households to a home by 2030
People with disability – People with disability
Purpose Five focus areas have a choice of homes to meet a range
To create an agile housing system that underpins Focus area 1: Supply – We have a choice of needs.
individual, family and community wellbeing. of homes for people of all cultures, ages, Older Western Australians – Older people
incomes and circumstances. can age with choice in their communities.
Strategic principles Focus area 2: Design – Our communities
• A housing system that provides choice and homes are designed for now and
for every Western Australian. the future.
• Support equity and accessibility to create Focus area 3: Housing literacy – We are
an inclusive WA. empowered to make housing decisions. Implementation plans
• Maintain and grow the social housing Focus area 4: Access – We can access
safety net. homes that meet our needs. WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030
• Person-centred, place-based and Focus area 5: Housing pathways – We can
community focused. move homes easily when we choose or our
needs change.
Five levers
Tailored housing responses
1. Build capacity, capability and collaboration
across our sectors. Families with children – Children live
in healthy, stable homes that support
2. Strategically unlock and optimise land.
their development.
3. Embed and integrate social and
affordable housing. Young people (ages 18–25) – Young people
4. Redevelop, refurbish and renew current are supported in their housing choices.
Affordable Regional Social housing
housing stock. Aboriginal people – Aboriginal people have housing and remote framework
secure homes that enable their wellbeing. housing
5. Connect people to housing information.
9 | Department of CommunitiesConnecting 150,000 WA households to a home by 2030
Focus area 1: Strategically unlock Focus area 2:
Supply and optimise land Design
Outcome:
Outcome:
We have a choice of
Our communities and
homes for people of all
homes are designed for
cultures, ages, incomes
now and the future
and circumstances De
ply sig
Build capacity, up n Embed and
S
capability and integrate
collaboration social and
across our Create affordable
sectors an agile housing
housing
lite sing
H o us ays
p at h w
ra c y
system
u
i ng
Ho
Focus area 3:
Focus area 5: Housing literacy
Housing pathways
Access Outcome:
Outcome:
We are empowered to make
We can move homes easily housing decisions
when we choose or our Redevelop, refurbish
Connect people to
needs change and renew current
housing information
housing stock
Focus area 4: Access
Outcome:
We can access homes that meet our needs
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 10Our future housing system
The strategy sets the direction for the
next 10 years. It will lead WA to a more
agile housing system by: Achieving this future requires:
• creating sustainable communities • maintaining a supply of safe,
that are inclusive and connected stable, sustainable homes,
especially for those with
• working with communities to design
greater needs
and create housing solutions that
meet their needs and aspirations • more diverse housing options
• better matching housing supply • improving housing
and diversity to need and demand outcomes for those at risk or
to enable greater housing choice experiencing homelessness
• supporting access to safe, stable, • enabling people to access
sustainable homes for the current and sustain a home that
generation without compromising meets their current and
the capacity of future generations changing needs
• improving flow through the housing • creating sustainable
system, addressing key blockages communities that support
and gaps inclusion and social and
economic participation
• making better use of current
housing stock • supporting WA’s economic
prosperity through housing.
• providing people with the resources
and skills to sustain their homes.
11 | Department of CommunitiesThe WA Government will use five key levers:
Build capacity, Redevelop,
capability and Strategically Embed and refurbish and Connect
collaboration across unlock and integrate social and renew current people to housing
our sectors optimise land affordable housing housing stock information
Create purposeful Facilitate the delivery Create sustainable Connect people to
partnerships that build on communities that Maintain a strong social
of new supply through housing safety net through housing information,
the strengths of the housing strategically unlocking support inclusion assistance and tenant
sector through increasing through embedding redeveloping, refurbishing
and optimising land and renewing social skills, enabling them
capacity, capability and for investment in and integrating social to overcome barriers
collaboration – the WA and affordable housing housing stock to align
housing outcomes homes to need to access and sustain
Government has a key role in outcomes in State and a home
enabling these partnerships local planning systems
to support innovation and
improve service delivery
and supply
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 12Our approach
Building on our success
In 2010, WA led the way nationally with the release
of Australia’s first Affordable Housing Strategy,
introducing the housing continuum concept.
This new approach recognised that the provision of
social housing alone would not solve the problem and
was financially unsustainable. Instead, it focused on
facilitating a continuum of housing options that were
affordable for households on low to moderate incomes.
This strategy builds on this approach to create a more
agile housing system for WA that offers better housing
choices and pathways for everyone. To achieve this,
it recognises that in addition to a housing continuum,
many people also require a continuum of support
to access and sustain a home or to move to a more
suitable home as their needs change. This combined
approach supports early intervention and prevents
people from falling through gaps.
13 | Department of CommunitiesFigure 3:
An integrated housing and support continuum
Homelessness Supported Affordable Affordable
housing rental home ownership
Support Housing
continuum continuum
Stabilise Suppor t Empower Enable
Housing Support
continuum continuum
Crisis Social Market Market
accommodation housing rental home ownership
Figure 3 shows how the nature of assistance changes along the continuum, with more intensive housing
and support assistance required for people on very low to low incomes and with greater needs.
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 14Connecting to whole-of-government
priorities and outcomes
The strategy provides a strong platform Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Ageing with Choice: Future directions for
to support whole-of-government priorities Accommodation and Support Strategy: seniors housing, 2019-2024: recognises the
and outcomes as outlined in figure 4 on the provides a framework to guide stakeholders unique needs of older people. This strategy
following page. in the development of appropriate has been informed by this important directions
accommodation and support for people paper to ensure housing responses can meet
The strategy aligns with and supports with mental health and alcohol and other people’s needs as they age.
various cross-government objectives. drug issues. It will inform implementation
planning under this strategy. 10 Year State Disability Strategy: the WA
WA Government planning reform: will Government is developing a 10-year strategy
create a more responsive planning system All Paths Lead to a Home: WA’s 10 Year that will confirm its commitment to achieving
with clear strategic direction, making it Strategy on Homelessness 2020-2030 a more inclusive WA. Actions will align with
easier to deliver liveable environments, (Strategy on Homelessness): adopts a this strategy, to ensure housing options are
well-connected communities and more Housing First approach, where people are available for people with disability.
housing choice and diversity. given access to safe and stable housing as
a priority with individual supports provided
The Sustainable Health Review: recognises
as required to address other needs.
housing as a key contributor to overall
health and wellbeing and to minimising the 10 Year Strategy to Reduce Family and
rising costs in the healthcare system. Domestic Violence: the WA Government
is developing this important 10-year
strategy. A key focus will be to connect
people experiencing family and domestic
violence with timely supports, including
access to a safe place to stay if needed
and suitable long-term housing options
as quickly as possible.
15 | Department of CommunitiesFigure 4:
Strategic alignment overview
Resilient
Department Families, Strong
Communities:
of Communities State Disability
A roadmap for
Strategic Plan Strategy regional and remote
2019-2023 Aboriginal
Building a Ageing with
Better Future: communities
Choice: Future
Early Years
Out-of-Home DevelopmentWA directions for
Initiative
Care Reform seniors housing
Program All Paths Lead WA Strategy 2019-2024
to a Home: WA’s to Respond to
Target 120 Veterans and
10-Year Strategy on the Abuse of Metronet
initiative Families Strategy
Homelessness Older People
Aboriginal
Stronger 10 Year 2020-2030 2019-2029
Community
Together: Strategy for WA Youth Action Plan
Controlled
WA’s Plan for Reducing Family Strategy for at Risk Youth
Organisation
Gender and Domestic 2020-2025
Strategy Mental
Equality Violence to 2022 Health, Alcohol
WA Housing
WA Carers State Planning Regional and Other Drug
Strategy
Strategy Strategy 2050 Strategies Accommodation
2020-2030
Working Waterwise and Support
together for Western Climate Perth: A Growing Strategy
Western Australia Australian change in Keystart City Responding
to reform our Methamphetamine Western To Climate Change
criminal justice The Western Action Plan Australia Two Year Waste
Social Western Action Plan
system Australian Avoidance
Assistance State
Alcohol and Drug Australian Industry and Resource
and Allied Infrastructure
Interagency Participation Recovery
Health Workforce Strategy
Strategy Roads Strategy 2019 Strategy
Strategy State
2018-2022 2030: Regional Regional 2030
Government Sustainable
Strategies for Development
Strategy for Tourism Health Review
Significant Local Strategy
in Western
Government A Path 2016-2025
Australia
Roads Forward: Perth and
Perth and
Developing Peel@3.5million:
Peel@3.5million
WA’s Aboriginal The Transport
Refer to Appendix 1 for Empowerment Network
a list of strategies and Strategy
initiatives in figure 4.
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 16Outcomes In line with the Outcomes Measurement
Framework WA 2019,5 the strategy focuses
on a person-centred response.
The strategy seeks to achieve the following outcomes:
• we have a choice of homes for people of all cultures, ages,
incomes and circumstances
• our communities and homes are designed for now and
the future
• we are empowered to make housing decisions
• we can access homes that meet our needs
• we can move homes easily when we choose or our
needs change.
17 | Department of CommunitiesFigure 5:
Overview of alignment with the S TAINABL Our built and natural environments are liveable and sustainable
SU E
Outcomes Measurement Framework WA Good design and urban planning are key to creating homes and
communities that are responsive to the local environment and
changing conditions.
We choose how to live our lives We are safe and free from harm
The strategy will contribute to improving The strategy will connect people to
D
housing choice through access to ERE SA
F safe homes, free from violence, fear and
W
information, assistance and a diversity of danger and where they can feel secure.
PO
E
homes to meet a range of needs.
EM
We are financially
secure and have suitable,
stable and culturally
We are connected to appropriate housing
culture, our communities,
D
The strategy fundamentally
N E CT E
our environment and Outcomes
STABLE
addresses this outcome by
to each other Measurement connecting households to
Framework a safe, stable, sustainable
Strong, inclusive
N
WA home. It takes an integrated
communities contribute
CO
to social connection approach to enable people
and participation. to access and sustain a
home or move to a more
suitable home as their
needs change.
EQ
U
Y
IP
H
We have the skills, experiences and resources to PED H E A LT We are healthy and well
contribute to our community and economy
A home provides a foundation for good physical,
Well-located and designed homes promote access to mental, emotional and spiritual health and wellbeing.
transport, employment, services, support and green By improving housing pathways and choices, Western
spaces. This supports economic participation. Australians are more likely to be healthy and well.
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 18Tailored housing
responses
While the strategy treats everyone as an individual,
Trish’s home
Trish found herself managing multiple
it recognises that tailored housing responses need challenging situations at once. A new
to be considered for certain groups of people. mum leaving an unhealthy relationship,
while managing a mental health
condition and substance abuse issues,
she found herself floating between
Families with children homes with no place of her own.
She could not afford to rent privately on
her own and had no idea what her future
Outcome: Children live in healthy stable homes that looked like, when a mental health nurse “To remain in my home, I need to be under the
support their development helped her apply for a home through an care of mental health services, I can’t have too
independent living program connected much money in my savings account, and there
with the community housing provider, is a cap on how much I can earn – so where is
Access Housing. my incentive to improve my life?” Trish says.
Improving access to healthy stable homes, connected to
community, will improve the health, wellbeing and education Having a stable home was life changing. “I have a legitimate fear that as my mental
of our children. She moved into a two-bedroom unit in health and financial circumstances improve,
a quiet street with friendly neighbours – I won’t be able to stay here due to policy
Housing stress and instability place added pressure on the perfect place to start a new life and
parents and caregivers, reducing their capacity to nurture and settings. I don’t know of an avenue that could
raise her daughter. support me to buy this home so I can remain
engage positively with children.
“It is so important to be able to match living here.
Poor housing outcomes for children can flow across their the tenant to the neighbours,” she said. “I think the funding should be linked to the
lifespan and affect engagement with education, employment service – not the actual house.
Now her daughter is a teen, Trish looks
prospects and financial security.6
back on her years in this home as the “I’d like to think I could stay mentally healthy
Children benefit from stable homes that are appropriately sized most stable, healthy and happy period and earn more money without having to move,
and within reasonable distance of parks and playgrounds.7 of her life. She has been a member of a because stability is very important to people
faith community and a 12-step program with mental health issues.
for many years, she is mentally well and
is building a career. “I am so grateful for this home – it is every
In 2019 around 44,000 children and Australian’s right to have a safe home – but
young people were living below the However, she says she feels the policies I also want to improve my independence.
around the provision of housing could We need policies that are flexible and meet
poverty line in WA.8
be more proactive in supporting her and individuals’ needs.”
others move towards independence.
19 | Department of CommunitiesYoung people People with
(ages 18–25) disability
Outcome: Young people are supported Outcome: People with disability have a choice
in their housing choices of homes to meet a range of needs
The voices and opinions of young people The housing needs of people with disability
are important in shaping our future homes. vary greatly. Some people may require
purpose-built homes and support, others
A home is key to succeeding in education may not. Improving the availability of a range
and employment. For many young people, of housing options for people with disability
leaving the family home or care and will enable greater choice.
moving into their first home represents
independence, growth and empowerment. Having a home that is well-designed is
a key enabler to feeling safe, secure and
Breaking down the barriers and creating being connected to the community. Liveable
more housing choices for young people is design enables flexibility to adapt to people’s
essential to supporting their future and will changing needs. But good design is not
mean fewer young people are likely to fall just about the interior of our homes. Our
through the gaps of the housing system. communities also need to be designed for
accessibility and inclusivity.
Some people with disability experience
higher costs of living, including the cost
of housing that meets their needs. Homes
that are both financially sustainable and
84 per cent of people think home ownership well-located are therefore essential for people
is out of reach for our young people.9 to access services, amenities and connect
to opportunities including employment.11
100 per cent of young people aged 18 People with disability told us that location,
to 25 believe the design of their home is affordability and availability of support are their
fundamental to health and wellbeing.10 three most important housing outcomes.12
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 20Aboriginal
Maya’s people
home
Outcome: Aboriginal people have secure
homes that enable their wellbeing
Maintaining a strong connection to culture
and country for Aboriginal people is a key
enabler of health and social, emotional and
cultural wellbeing.13
Maya, from Broome, had been living in her home for 14 years
when she was given a promotion at work, meaning she was no Due to historical policies, a significant gap
longer eligible to live in public housing. remains between life outcomes of Aboriginal
and non-Aboriginal Australians.14
Her new job would assist her financially and personally,
particularly as she had been working two jobs to pay off her debts. Aboriginal people need to be genuinely
consulted and involved in designing and
However, as a single parent with two children she would now have
leading effective pathways to their wellbeing.
to find a new family home. Through word-of-mouth she was made
aware of the Department of Communities’ Transitional Housing Working together, and in partnership, with
Program, and she was impressed by the support she received. Aboriginal people is fundamental to improving
“They gave me an awareness on how to manage my finances,” intergenerational outcomes. This will enable
she says. “I got to meet with financial advisors who gave me an the co-design of culturally appropriate
idea on how to plan for buying my own home.” responses that support the needs and
aspirations of Aboriginal people. It will also
Despite facing personal and financial challenges along the way, enable personal and systemic barriers to
five years later Maya bought her own home. be addressed.
“I moved into a brand-new home in Broome which was bigger and
better than my previous home. The gardens were established, and
the house was air-conditioned,” she says.
“It was a fresh start and gave me the building blocks to make Between 2011 and 2016,
things better for myself and my family.” Aboriginal home ownership
increased 4.7 per cent in Perth.15
21 | Department of CommunitiesOlder Western
Robyn and Australians
Ken’s home Outcome: Older people can age with choice
in their communities
Most older people want to age in the
communities they know, with the support
of friends and family.16 However, people’s
housing needs may change with age.
Robyn and Ken were enjoying their retirement in the home they owned
Older people need appropriately designed
in a country town when Ken’s medical needs started to grow.
homes, connected to transport, services
They needed to move to Perth to be closer to services, but the return and amenity.
from selling their home was not going to be enough to relocate.
People need good information and support
Following months of research and trying to make the numbers work, to plan ahead and make informed housing
Robyn and Ken were about to give up on relocating until they heard choices. By increasing the availability of
about the WA Government’s Shared Equity program. homes that can support independence in
Thanks to the program they could relocate to a cottage home in older age and removing barriers to moving
Wellard, owning 75 per cent of the property, with the WA Government house, more people will be able to age with
owning 25 per cent. choice in their communities.
Robyn commented that the four-bedroom home was spacious enough
and in a great position overlooking a park and close to amenities.
“We love it here – we just love our home to bits. Buying this home
was one of the best things we have ever done. It was perfectly easy,”
Robyn says.
“We are close to the train and are seven minutes from a hospital –
it’s made our lives a lot more pleasant. We have a lovely sense of Between 2020 and 2030, it is estimated that
community here and we know our neighbours.
the number of people in WA aged 65 or over
“I’ve joined a community chat group and I’ve joined a group of local
women who live in the area and we often get together.” will grow by 42 per cent (or 168,690 people).17
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 22The five focus areas
of the strategy
The strategy outlines five focus areas
to lead WA to an agile housing system.
23 | Department of CommunitiesHousing
Supply
pathways
E A5 FO
CU
AR S
AR
US
C
5
EA
FO
1
EA 2
FOCUS
Focus Areas
S AR
CU
AR
FO
EA
Access Design
4
FOCUS
AREA 3
Housing
literacy
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 24Focus area 1: Supply
Outcome: We have a choice of homes for people
of all cultures, ages, incomes and circumstances
Reduced housing choice may result in people being
Where are we now? forced to move away from their support networks,
or to live in locations that are further away from
Supply is not just about building more homes.
transport, education, employment and services.18
It’s about matching supply to housing need and
making better use of our current stock. Our homes don’t match the size of our households.
Larger homes continue to dominate WA’s
Lack of diversity in housing size, tenure, type
housing stock, despite smaller household sizes.19
and location is reducing housing choice for
The repurposing of larger properties is an
many people.
untapped opportunity.
This issue impacts everyone: young people
At the same time, there is a shortage of homes
wanting to move to their first home; key workers;
that can accommodate multi-generational living,
older people looking to age with choice; people
visiting family and friends or caring arrangements.
with disability; and households on low incomes
This can result in overcrowding, creating health and
struggling to balance housing and living costs.
safety risks with the potential for eviction. People
For people in regional and remote communities, told us this is particularly relevant for Aboriginal
housing choice is even more limited. Conditions people and people from culturally and linguistically
in regional housing markets are mixed. Some diverse backgrounds.
regions don’t have a strong private rental market
and the cost of construction can outweigh the
value of the home.
People rated housing diversity in
WA as low, with an average rating
of 4.6 out of 10.20
25 | Department of CommunitiesCrisis and short-stay accommodation
A lack of crisis and short-stay
accommodation is an issue in WA.
The impact on wellbeing and risk of
harm increases the longer it takes to
provide safe, secure and stable
housing with appropriate supports.21
Aboriginal people and families need
to travel from remote communities
to regional centres for a variety of
Wendy’s home
reasons. Without culturally appropriate
short-stay accommodation, people can
often end up sleeping rough or living in
overcrowded conditions.
Subsidised and private rental
Need for social housing continues Wendy and her husband had owned years raising her family and not
In 2015-16, 57 per cent of their own home for many years. working, she did not have much
to outstrip supply. This is expected
WA households in the to worsen due to the impact of the When the marriage ended, she was superannuation to lean on.
lowest income range COVID-19 health crisis. Any ongoing shocked to discover she could not
It is a story she has seen repeated
unemployment will lead to more afford to buy a home on her own.
(earning less than $557 many times over.
financial and household stress and The sale of the family home in
per week) and 68 per cent Wendy decided to not worry about
exacerbate social impacts, typically a small country town only gave
on $557 – $796 per week most severe for vulnerable and not being able to buy her own
her enough money to buy herself
were in rental stress.23 disadvantaged groups. some furniture and white goods to home but to focus on living a quality
establish her new life. life – but she is aware that she does
not have security of tenure in her
“I was nearing 50, studying and only granny-flat rental.
working part-time so I couldn’t buy
a house of my own,” she said. “I love where I live now – it is
absolutely wonderful.
That was nearly 20 years ago and
since then Wendy has generally “I am surrounded by bush and have
lived in private rentals – though lived my dream of living under a
there have been times when the gum tree.
cost of rentals was so high that she “It is very affordable and I am very,
The WA Government
had to live with family and friends. very fortunate – but I am aware that
invests more than
Wendy said the mining boom made I don’t have a rental agreement and
$90 million annually that I therefore don’t have security,”
Perth rentals unaffordable – and
in remote housing.24 because she had spent many she said.
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 26Larger social homes make up most There is also a lack of longer-term The WA Government’s Keystart low The challenge for stakeholders is to use
of the stock, while 88 per cent of tenure options for people who require deposit home loans and shared home all available levers, policy, investment
waitlist need is for one and housing stability but cannot afford to ownership scheme are key financial and partnerships to drive better
two-bedroom homes.22 purchase a home. enablers that support those on low to diversity, affordability and outcomes.
moderate incomes to purchase a home.
The social housing asset portfolio Many people find the short-term
is ageing. Without substantial ongoing nature of private rental leases WA has a strong history of WA housing stock:
investment and maintenance, difficult, particularly older people. For collaborating and creating purposeful Bedrooms
operating costs will increase those with access or mobility needs, partnerships to drive affordable home
significantly, putting pressure on stock. ownership. The WA Government 5 bed+ Studio/1 bed
finding a suitable private rental option
Affordable rentals remain a significant
is extremely difficult. The cost to will continue to build on this strong
6% 5%
modify a home, and the reluctance platform to deliver home ownership for
gap in the housing continuum. The the community. 2 bed
of some landlords to do so, further
largest source of affordable rentals
in WA – the Australian Government’s
reduces choice for older people and
people with disability.
13%
National Rental Affordability Scheme Many factors impact supply and 4 bed
– will end in 2026. This will translate
to a loss of affordable rentals across
Addressing this critical gap requires
new rental models, sources of capital
affordability
38%
There are many factors at play that 3 bed
the State.
Even with a downturn in the rental
and alternative investment models
that can deliver social and affordable
impact supply and affordability. Within
the building and development process,
38%
rentals at scale.
market following the mining boom, the ability to finance projects has
there remained a big gap between become harder. Higher standards
rental prices and what people Home ownership and a stronger regulation framework
could afford. This gap is likely to be can lead to better outcomes for
accelerated by the COVID-19 health Owning a home remains a key communities. However, there is a risk
crisis, as renters have reduced aspiration for Western Australians of that the added regulatory complexity WA Household Size:
employment opportunities and wages. all ages.25 could increase the cost of housing. Number of Persons
In March 2020, a six-month Many aspiring homeowners are A potential downturn in house prices
5 Persons 1 Person
moratorium on evictions and rent limited by a lack of smaller, more due to the COVID-19 health crisis
increases was implemented by the affordable properties for purchase. would not necessarily translate 10% 24%
State Government to assist people For those living in remote Aboriginal into greater overall affordability
financially during the COVID-19 heath when coupled with higher levels of 4 Persons
communities, home ownership
crisis. However, as the market tightens is often not possible due to employment and underemployment. 16%
- the rental vacancy rate remains tenure arrangements.
extremely low - and these restrictions The growth of our communities has
ease, there may be a rebound effect. The private housing industry is the a direct impact on land availability 3 Persons 2 Persons
This would further increase the gap
between rental prices and what people
main provider in the home ownership
market. However, the WA Government
and infrastructure requirements.
Land use planning and incentives,
16% 34%
can afford, placing many people in plays an important role in facilitating infrastructure levies and development
housing stress, especially those on opportunities especially for those contributions are key to building
communities long-term. Source: ABS Census 2016
very low to low incomes. who would otherwise be excluded.
27 | Department of CommunitiesStrategic response
Focus area 1: Supply
Outcome: We have a choice of homes for people of all cultures, ages, incomes and circumstances
We will Targets
1. Sustain and grow the social housing safety net. 1. Six per cent net increase in social
housing by 2030.
2. Increase the availability of secure and affordable rental models.
2. Ensure a minimum of 20 per cent
social and affordable homes in
3. Create the conditions and mechanisms to harness private and institutional investment for social and Government residential developments.
affordable housing.
3. By 2025, develop a framework and
baseline standards to make approval
4. Work with the Australian Government to improve living conditions and wellbeing in remote communities,
systems consistent and efficient.
using a place-based approach to make investment decisions.
4. Deliver 70 per cent of residential land
5. Reform the planning and approvals system to drive housing diversity and affordability. lots sold below the median* price and
30 per cent in the lowest quartile in
6. Unlock capacity and build capability in the community housing sector to increase the supply of social housing. Government residential developments.
7. Build capacity in the Indigenous housing sector to strengthen its ability to respond to Aboriginal people’s
housing needs.
8. Make physically and culturally safe crisis and short-stay accommodation available, particularly in the regions.
Stakeholder
Target
No. WA Government Local government Australian Government Private sector Community sector
1. ü ü
2. ü ü ü
3. ü ü ü
4. ü ü
*For residential land located within Perth the Perth median will apply. For all other residential land the rest of WA median will apply.
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 28Focus area 2: Design
Outcome: Our communities and homes
are designed for now and the future
Photo credit: DevelopmentWA
As Perth becomes a more connected, densely
Where are we now? populated city, it is essential that we capitalise
Good design underpins how we create liveable, on current passenger rail construction and
inclusive and connected communities. The integrate more social and affordable homes
built environment is central to our daily lives, into station precincts and urban corridors.
so it’s critical to get it right.
Good urban design
The WA Government recognises that to meet
the State’s current and future housing needs, Recent State planning reforms will ensure
there needs to be a more strategic approach good design is at the heart of all development.
to urban planning, design and delivery. The Design WA suite of policies and guidelines
will improve consistency and raise standards
A well-connected Perth for natural light, good ventilation, tree
retention, local character, neighbourhood
The increase of land and housing development amenity and quality open space.
on the urban fringe has created challenges
for our State. Building homes that are further Good urban design is a key part of improving
away from transport, employment and community acceptance for infill development
Over 70 per cent of new detached services can contribute to social isolation and medium-high density housing choices.
residential homes in WA are double and locational disadvantage.26 Higher density
brick construction, while timber and and infill development are key to providing Urban heat is a considerable and
housing choice in all suburbs and creating well-documented issue that communities
steel framed construction makes up a more liveable and vibrant Perth. However, are grappling with during extended days
over 90 per cent in other major states.28 community acceptance is critical. of hot weather.27 The appropriate planning
29 | Department of Communitiesand orientation of buildings, choice of Improving the uptake of lightweight
construction materials, water sensitive construction materials and methods is
design, and increased landscaping and an opportunity to improve the flexibility,
tree retention make a significant impact sustainability and affordability of homes
on reducing urban heat islands. which will house future generations.
In addition, homes which incorporate liveable
Liveable and adaptable homes design principles are easier to access, navigate
and live in, and are more cost-effective to
Historically, homes across WA have been
adapt when life circumstances change.
built from both light and heavyweight
materials. However, since the 1960s, Liveable design benefits everyone. Despite
double brick construction has dominated this, only a small proportion of homes in WA
the housing market.29 are built to these standards. Many people
believe that liveable design is only for people
While there are some benefits of building with disability and access needs and are not
with heavyweight construction materials, aware of the broader benefits, such as enabling
such as brick, this method results in people to age in their community of choice.
high embodied energy and construction
costs, particularly in relation to site Consumer awareness and industry uptake are
preparation, labour and transportation key challenges that continue to dictate supply.
costs. Brick construction restricts the By increasing the number of liveable designed
ability to easily adapt homes to meet homes in WA, we will be better able to respond
changing household needs. to the needs of current and future generations.
Apartments 35%
30%
as a proportion 30%
25% 25%
of housing
20%
stock across 15%
16%
14%
17%
Australia 10% 9% 9%
8% People perceive the top three
Compared to the rest 5% benefits of apartment living
of Australia, Perth has to be: ability to lock and
0%
the lowest proportion leave, proximity to transport
of apartments and amenity and reduced
an r
dn er
urn er
Pe ater
ela ter
ba r
rw r
pit ian
isb te
Ho eate
Da eate
e
Sy reat
lbo eat
maintenance and living costs.30
ey
in
..
e
ide
rth
rt
Br rea
Ad rea
Ca stral
al.
e
Me Gr
Gr
Gr
Gr
G
G
G
Source: ABS Census 2016
Au
WA Housing Strategy 2020-2030 | 30Glenda’s
house
Glenda has rightsized from a
large block of land to an 80
square metre micro-lot in
Ellenbrook, and she loves it.
She bought her home after
looking at other small homes
Photo credit: ABC Kimberley on the market, finding one which
was being built with attention to
quality and amenity.
She has all the privacy she
Responsive to place vulnerability of communities and the risk
could want – but without a
of debt and possible eviction. clever that I couldn’t see or hear my
WA’s vast geographical size and high maintenance garden and
neighbours even if I wanted to –
diverse regions means a tailored and Urban renewal can build on the strengths large house.
I have closeness but also privacy.
fit-for-purpose design approach is and qualities of our communities “I love my home and I am very
critical. Through this approach we and revitalise under-utilised or poorly “This home wouldn’t suit everyone
happy,” she says. “I have a home
can shape sustainable communities performing places to better meet local – it’s not a family home – but it’s
which is spacious enough for
that are resilient and responsive to needs. Through the appropriate mix great for singles or couples. One
me and when I socialise it is not
the local environment and culture. of uses, activities and services we of my neighbours works FIFO (fly-
crammed – it has high ceilings, so
can provide residents with access to in-fly-out) and so the micro-lots are
it doesn’t feel small. It overlooks
Many remote and regional opportunity, and create safer, inclusive, great as a ‘lock and leave’ home.”
a park and is close to amenities.
communities are in areas that more liveable communities. I have a lovely view and it’s a Glenda said some people had been
experience a harsh climate with stark
lovely home.” sceptical when she told them she
differences between the wet and dry Investing in good design practices is
was moving to such a small lot,
seasons. These conditions create paramount to creating and supporting Glenda looked around to find a
but everyone who visits her home
significant stress on homes and sustainable communities and enhancing builder who was offering quality
is impressed that it could be so
need specific designs. quality of life. construction, at an affordable
spacious and lovely.
price point.
Homes that are not fit-for-purpose “It’s all about the clever design and
for the climate or household create “It is 100 per cent insulated from
the quality of the construction,”
maintenance issues, have a shorter 88 per cent of people believe sound and you can’t hear anything
she says. “If you are going to live
shelf life and impact on the comfort the design of the home is from the neighbours,” she says.
so close to your neighbours you
of the home. They can also increase fundamental to their health “I have two balconies overlooking need the houses to be well-built
the cost of utilities, such as heating and wellbeing.31 a lovely park but the way the with emphasis on insulation
or cooling. Higher costs increase the house has been designed is so and privacy.”
31 | Department of CommunitiesYou can also read
