Residents of the Cootamundra electorate are being encouraged to share their views on how the NSW Government can respond to increasing pressures on the supply and affordability of housing in regional NSW.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said the Regional Housing Taskforce is now taking submissions online through to Friday 27th August, as well as hosting a series of virtual roundtables, including one open the general public on Tuesday 10th August from 5pm to 7pm.
“We want to hear your experiences to better understand the challenges when buying and renting in the bush, so we can drive policy that delivers new housing opportunities for regional communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“This is your chance to share your opinion on housing issues affecting the seat of small communities.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the NSW Government is looking to tackle the combination of factors putting pressure on housing supply.
“By having the right housing policies, planning rules and support in place, we can boost our economic recovery and ensure everyone has a safe place to call home,” Mr Stokes said.
“Housing supply is as important in the regions as in Sydney, which is why I set up the Regional Housing Taskforce to investigate how we can better use the planning system and other levers to boost supply.”
Chair of the new Regional Housing Taskforce, Garry Fielding, said community feedback will be vital to informing his independent report, which will be handed to the NSW Government in September.
“These findings will play a crucial role in developing a set of recommendations on how to achieve better housing outcomes for our regions,” Mr Fielding said.
“I am pleased to lead this online roundtable, and encourage the community and local business to join the conversation.”
Throughout August, the Taskforce will be engaging with councils, Members of Parliament, the housing and development sectors and the local community.
A series of virtual consultations are scheduled, as well as in-person meetings in Ballina, Orange and Queanbeyan. For more information, register for an event or make an online submission visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/regional-housing.
