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Where is the greatest need for social housing in Australia?
Understanding the level and distribution of social housing need in Australia
Last updated 22 Jan 2019
While 384,700 households across Australia were housed in social housing in 2016 (4.4% of all households), an even greater number were in need of it—estimated to be around 433,000 households (5% of all households).
Recent AHURI research developed a demographic model to assess the level and distribution of social housing need across Australia. The analysis took into account existing social housing provision, the current backlog of unaddressed need, as well as the needs likely to arise over the next 20 years. The research then factored in housing and land markets to calculate the cost of procuring the required housing in 88 different areas across Australia.
The table below presents the top 10 SA4 areas that need the greatest number of new social housing dwellings based on this research.
Table 1: Top 10 areas needing the greatest number of new social housing dwellings in 2016
| Area | New social housing dwellings needed | Households currently in social housing | Total number of households | New social housing dwellings needed as % of total households |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Melbourne—West (Vic) | 14,100 | 6,200 | 248,000 | 5.7% |
Melbourne—South East (Vic) | 13,900 | 5,700 | 253,000 | 5.5% |
Gold Coast (Qld) | 13,600 | 5000 | 216,900 | 6.3% |
Inner South West Sydney (NSW) | 13,000 | 11,800 | 192,800 | 6.7% |
Parramatta Sydney (NSW) | 10,600 | 11,000 | 147,800 | 7.2% |
Melbourne—Inner (Vic) | 10,100 | 15,800 | 266,900 | 3.8% |
South West Sydney (NSW) | 10,000 | 9,400 | 123,000 | 8.1% |
Adelaide—North (SA) | 9,800 | 12,300 | 159,900 | 6.1% |
Wide Bay (Qld) | 9,000 | 3,800 | 115,900 | 7.8% |
Ipswich (Qld) | 8,000 | 5,200 | 112,000 | 7.1% |
Want to learn more? Join the discussion
An upcoming AHURI Discussion Series will explore the question Is social housing infrastructure? The first event will be held in Melbourne on Monday 11 February 2019 and will bring together thought leaders, policy makers and industry experts to explore this important topic. To find out more or register head to the event page on the AHURI website.