Then planning minister Cameron Dick,who would need to eventually sign off on changes to relevant laws,was also concerned. To address reservations about the long-term effects on housing supply,diversity and affordability,Dickmade his support conditional in early 2020.
In a ministerial condition,he said the council had to also “prepare and finalise an evidence-driven,comprehensive,conclusive and detailed housing strategy for the local government area” within 12 months.
More than two years later — after a pandemic that swept the globe,further bolstering the city’s nation-leading population growth as housing costs climbed and availability plummeted — such a plan still does not exist.
The council puts down that delay to the pandemic. In response to questions from this masthead,a spokeswoman said the council was committed to addressing the housing needs of residents and working to understand the effect of the cost of living increases.
“We have undertaken extensive research and engaged key stakeholders to understand housing needs in Brisbane;however,the coronavirus pandemic has seriously impacted Brisbane’s strategic housing demands and further research is being undertaken to fully understand changes to future housing directions,” she said in a statement.
“The state government is required to review their plan every five years. We have requested a timeframe for this review,which may influence the delivery of council’s housing strategy.”