Australian cities are desperate for the ‘missing middle’ of housing density

Abstract

But it’s not as simple as the nimby-yimby debate suggests Peter Mares.

A more sophisticated planning approach is needed to build homes for more people while still providing greenery and open space.

The Business Council of Australia wants local governments to be stripped of decision-making powers if they fail to meet “basic timeliness requirements” when processing development applications.

The Victorian government is already heading in this direction. It intends to override council planning to fast-track apartment blocks around transport hubs in established suburbs.

There’s a widespread view that local government shoulders responsibility for our housing shortfall because proscriptive regulations enable well-heeled objectors to block or delay projects. Bolder council action on housing would certainly be welcome. But the matter is more complex than a simple nimby-yimby divide would suggest.