A report from an inquiry into the supply of homes in regional Victoria. The inquiry examined the mix of housing forms required by regional communities to cater to the needs of Victorians throughout their lives. It also investigated modern methods of building these homes and explored ways to increase housing supply in regional Victoria.

The inquiry found that housing supply and housing demand are poorly aligned in regional communities, with serious consequences for many Victorians. Evidence suggested that greater collaboration between state and local governments, placed‑based planning, strategic infrastructure investment and targeted support to stimulate development can unlock additional housing supply.

The report presents 12 findings and 34 recommendations.

Key findings

• Regional Victoria’s expanding population is contributing to the demand for houses, placing upwards pressure on costs and exacerbating low rental vacancy rates.
• Low rental vacancy rates are increasing the competition for housing and pushing up the cost of rents.
• The supply of new homes in regional Victoria is not keeping pace with demand.
• Increasing demand for social housing appears to be outpacing the delivery of new homes.
• An increasing number of regional Victorians are experiencing housing stress and insecurity.
• The lack of suitable and affordable housing in regional Victoria disproportionately affects a range of vulnerable groups.