ACT government announces advisory group, summit to tackle housing affordability

The ACT government has announced details of an advisory group and summit aimed at tackling housing affordability and homelessness in Canberra.

The Affordable Housing Advisory Group encompasses housing sector and community leaders, academics, and public housing tenants who will guide the government on developing policies to address the two issues. 

Minister for Housing and Suburban Development Yvette Berry said the group would help form a new ACT housing strategy.

“The group will help to guide and inform how the government will consult with the wider community on the key issue of improving social inclusion for low income earners through affordable housing and housing support services,” she said.

“The representation across community, industry and the academic sectors reflects the breadth of challenges that exist in this space but I am particularly pleased to have two Housing ACT tenants as members of the advisory group. 

Group members include ACT Shelter executive officer Travis Gilbert, Property Council ACT executive director Adina Cirson, Luton Properties agent Christine Shaw, Woden Community Service chief executive officer Chris Redmond, University of Canberra emeritus professor Meredith Edwards, Havelock Housing managing director Neil Skipper, and Alan Morschel​ from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.

Housing ACT tenants Peta Dawson and John Jacob are also group members. 

Ms Berry, who is also deputy chief minister, said the duo’s involvement would bring “an essential perspective” to the discussions. 

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“Their lived experience will help to ensure that recommended strategies to improve housing affordability in the ACT are centred on the needs of those who need assistance,” she said.

The government is also preparing for an ACT Housing and Homelessness Summit on October 17.

Ms Berry said a slew of community consultations and focus group forums would be rolled out in the lead up to the event to help inform the discussion topics.

“I encourage all Canberrans to get involved and especially those with lived experiences of homelessness, housing stress or difficulty in accessing affordable housing,” she said.

Details of the consultations will be advertised on the ACT government’s Your Say website.

To register your interest, email affordablehousing@act.gov.au