Already in Allora two small homes have been erected this year and occupiers are happy with the outcome.

Following a recent survey on small homes, Southern Downs Regional Council considered the 491 survey submissions and resolved to implement the following changes to make housing more accessible and affordable:

• Removal of any size requirements for Class 1 buildings (houses): This change eliminates restrictions on the minimum size of residential buildings, allowing for greater flexibility in home construction. It removes an additional application and associated fee that was imposed on small homes.
• Elimination of the additional approval process for Class 1 buildings that resemble a shed, garage or similar in design and appearance: This amendment brings Southern Downs in line with other Councils and simplifies the approval process, making it easier for residents to build homes that suit their needs and budgets.

Councillor Joel Richters said these updates reflected strong community feedback gathered from the survey and tackled the ongoing housing crisis with practical solutions.

“We know that right now many residents in the Southern Downs need more affordable housing options,” Councillor Richters said.

“Council is doing everything it can to allow people to choose the style and size of home that suits their lifestyle and their budget. Whether it’s your first step on the property ladder, or downsizing in retirement, small homes can suit people far better than larger houses.

“The results of our recent survey overwhelmingly told us that people in our region want housing stability and if that means via a tiny home then they were ok with that.”

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 28 August 2024.