Stream 1 is for projects that aim to build the planning workforce and capability to improve the efficiency of the planning process so that housing construction can start sooner.

These could be new pathways for planners and related professions to enter the industry, or tools to streamline planning systems and improve decision-making efficiency.

Projects could also look at sharing resources between local governments or supporting master planning and planning reform.

Projects must demonstrate how they will align with planning, zoning and regulatory reforms agreed through National Cabinet’s National Planning Reform Blueprint, land-use planning for disaster resilience and the aims of the National Housing Accord.

The National Housing Accord with states and territories sets out a shared ambition to build 1.2 million new well-located homes over 5 years from 1 July 2024.

Homes would be close to jobs, schools, transport and other amenities to support improved productivity and liveability.

The Federal Government has also committed $3 billion for the New Homes Bonus to boost housing supply and federal funding to deliver 40,000 new affordable rental homes.

Applications for stream 1 of the $500 million Housing Support Program will be open from Wednesday, 27 March 2024 until 12.00pm AEST Monday, 29 April 2024.

Stream 2 will provide funding for projects that provide enabling infrastructure and amenities such as footpaths, roads and parks to support new housing. This stream will open for applications May 2024.

For further information visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities/housing-support-program

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO MINISTER FOR INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT, REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT, CATHERINE KING MP:

“Through the Housing Support Program, we’ll be helping to turbocharge planning so we can deliver more homes for more Australians.

“Strengthening planning capability through the program will help kick-start housing supply from local, state and territory governments.

“It’s a critical part of plan to work with states and territories and help them meet the ambitious national target to build 1.2 million well-located new homes.”

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BENDIGO, LISA CHESTERS MP:

“Bendigo and Central Victoria are not immune to the housing crisis confronting the entire nation.

“It’s well-documented how many locals are struggling to find appropriate and affordable housing right now and that’s why programs like this are so important to help increase housing supply.

“I would like to encourage our local Councils to consider making an application.”