Australia has the potential to significantly increase its housing supply by nearly one million homes, according to a recent report. The strategy involves adopting a “gentle density” approach, a model that has seen success in New Zealand, which promotes gradual increases in housing density within existing neighborhoods without drastically altering their character.
The report suggests that implementing gentle density could help alleviate Australia’s ongoing accommodation crisis by providing more diverse and affordable housing options. This approach typically involves adding secondary dwellings, multi-family units, or small-scale developments in established residential areas, allowing for increased housing without extensive new urban sprawl.
Experts indicate that adopting this strategy could be a practical way to address Australia’s housing shortage while maintaining community aesthetics and cohesion. Policymakers are encouraged to consider the model as part of broader efforts to improve housing affordability and supply across the country.
The findings come amid ongoing discussions about sustainable urban growth and the need for innovative solutions to meet current and future housing demands. If adopted nationwide, gentle density could contribute significantly to easing housing shortages and providing more diverse living options for Australian residents.