Housing locally: positioning Australian local government housing for a new century

Local government can play a significant role in facilitating better housing outcomes, but this role is seldom recognised by the sector itself or higher levels of government. This article examines the potential for Australian local governments to play an enhanced housing role by examining the range of initiatives undertaken by 21 metropolitan councils in New South Wales (NSW), Queensland, and Victoria. It argues that many councils now demonstrate significant innovation and leadership in addressing local housing needs, but that these efforts are often frustrated by poor planning frameworks and a lack of strategic policy at both State and Federal levels.