Research Summary

This research critically reviews how different emerging digital and disruptive technologies, such as blockchain, are being incorporated into the housing, housing assistance and planning systems, and how they might lead to greater efficiencies and new opportunities. While much work has been done in opening up property data assets across governments, significant work is required on data standards, privacy standards and data sharing across government, industry and the non-profit sectors.

Research Outcomes

• The sharing or ‘gig’ economy, with the likes of Airbnb, is already disrupting the housing sector.
• Digital planning tools are on the cusp of systematic adoption by councils and metropolitan planning agencies to support data-driven city planning.
• Whilst much work has been done in opening up property data assets across governments, significant work is required on data standards, interoperability and data sharing across government, industry and the non-profit sectors.
• Blockchain is considered a new and emerging technology with numerous potential benefits across the housing sector.
• The Smart Cities movement offers opportunities to undertake pilots and consider new and disruptive technologies.