Liam McNally
A Melton councillor believes tiny homes could help address the municipality’s “issues” with housing availability and affordability.
At council’s December 12 meeting, deputy mayor Julie Shannon called for council to document current and potential opportunities to enable the construction of tiny homes and dependent persons units “with a view to supporting appropriate affordable housing and opportunities.”
Tiny homes are moveable dwellings up to 50 square metres that are suitable for residential use, often on wheels, on skids or shipping containers.
Cr Shannon said Melton had housing problems.
“Issues where there are not enough rentals to live in, many are too expensive, and many people live in overcrowded situations. We have people that sleep in cars, and a lot of people are desperate for help in this area,” she said.
Owner of Tullamarine tiny home company NJ Tiny, Nick Todd said he has seen demand for tiny homes, which start at about $100,000, increase dramatically.
“There is a lack of a real alternative for people struggling financially and for those looking to downsize as they get older. Many have stated they have been unable to find cost effective rental options or availability of good accommodation in suburban locations,” he said.
Mr Todd firmly believes tiny homes could help ease the affordable housing “crisis”.
“I would love to meet with council representatives to discuss solutions to help get more people living in appropriate tiny homes.”
Mr Todd said different councils will have different rules for tiny homes, but they are often categorised as caravans, which means they will often have to be moved after a few months, and cannot be the only dwelling on a property.
“There should be clear cut categories within councils for tiny homes built to Australian Standards for use in a suburban environment and said there could be new regulations drawn up,” he said.
