The City of Onkaparinga’s newly announced Affordable Housing Strategy aims to address one of the most pressing challenges facing the region: access to affordable, appropriate and well-located housing.
Unanimously endorsed by the council, the Affordable Housing Strategy 2025–28 sets out a coordinated approach to increasing housing diversity and affordability across the city.
It acknowledges that while local government isn’t responsible for building homes, it plays a vital role in shaping the conditions in which affordable housing can exist – and thrive.
Mayor Moira Were said the strategy was developed in direct response to the rising pressure on local housing supply and costs, as well as the community’s strong desire for action.
“We know housing is about more than four walls and a roof,” Mayor Were said.
“It’s about creating a sense of belonging, safety and opportunity. When people have access to a secure and affordable home, they can contribute to their community, support their family, and live with dignity. That’s what this strategy is about.”
The strategy has been built on a detailed housing-needs assessment which showed an increasing number of people experiencing rental stress and rental vacancies sitting at record lows.
At the same time, median house prices have increased by 78 per cent in the past nine years, pushing home ownership further out of reach for many low- and moderate-income earners.
The new plan aims to bring together planning, partnerships and advocacy to support real change.
It outlines 28 specific actions the council will take to influence housing affordability, including reviewing council-owned land for affordable housing opportunities, supporting smaller and more sustainable home designs, piloting shared housing models, and advocating for stronger commitments from state and federal governments on social and affordable housing.
Importantly, the strategy acknowledges that the council cannot solve the housing crisis alone.
“This is a challenge that requires all tiers of government to step up and work together,” Mayor Were said.
“We need state and federal investment in infrastructure and social housing. We need developers and community-housing providers at the table. And we need local residents and organisations to continue sharing their insights and ideas. This strategy is our commitment to being part of that shared effort.”
The strategy identifies opportunities for the council to lead by example – such as through the Homes for Tomorrow program, which helps local households navigate sustainable building choices – as well as to influence future development through planning policy and advocacy.
It also calls for innovation. One action includes exploring ways to bring long-term vacant homes back onto the rental market, while another involves trialling home-share models to better use existing housing stock.
As Onkaparinga continues to grow – projected to reach 215,000 residents by 2041 – the strategy emphasises the importance of future-focused, inclusive planning.
“Our Community Vision calls for a connected community and sustainable future. Affordable housing is central to both,” Mayor Were said.
“We’re proud to be stepping up and setting a clear direction for how we can support a fairer, more liveable city for everyone.”
To explore the strategy, visit onkaparingacity.com/affordablehousing.