A wave of change is set to reshape Western Sydney’s housing landscape. Forget the sprawling suburbs of yesterday; a new vision is emerging, one where affordability isn’t a luxury, but a reality. Five councils—Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, Blacktown, Camden, and Wollondilly—are spearheading a bold initiative, a decade-long commitment to build 3,600 affordable homes.
The story of Western Sydney has shifted dramatically. Once a beacon of accessible living, rising costs have pushed families to the brink. It’s a silent crisis, where full-time workers are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, and the spectre of homelessness looms larger than ever. Numbers paint a stark picture: a staggering 16.3% of households, over 82,000 families, were already battling housing stress in 2021. And with projections hinting at a rise to 18.1% by 2041, the urgency is palpable.
The answer? A carefully crafted plan, not just a quick fix. Starting in 2028, new developments will contribute to a dedicated fund, a move designed to build a sustainable future without disrupting the present. This isn’t about stifling growth; it’s about ensuring growth benefits everyone. These homes, managed by trusted community housing providers, will offer a lifeline, a stable foundation for those most in need.
This isn’t a top-down mandate. It’s a conversation, a collaboration. The Western Sydney Planning Partnership and the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure have been integral to its creation. But the true architects of this change are the residents. Before the final blueprints are drawn in 2025, community voices will shape the outcome, ensuring this initiative truly reflects the heart of Western Sydney. It’s a testament to the power of collective action, a promise to build a more equitable and inclusive future for all who call this vibrant region home.
The draft scheme, draft distribution plan, summary and FAQS are on exhibition from 10 March until 7 April 2025 on Your Hawkesbury Your Say . You can make a written submission before the close of business on 7 April to Hawkesbury City Council, PO Box 146, Windsor NSW 2756 or to [email protected].
