As the federal election looms we are encouraged to see that affordable housing continues to grow as a hot item in media and politics. Although some responses in proposed policy do not appear helpful to the housing affordability crisis, it is pleasing that general interest is very high. We hope that the future will see bipartisan and long term solutions to ensure our cities include both social and affordable housing in their development plans and that Federal policies will be targeted appropriately. Although the States have primary responsibility for delivering social and affordable housing with the NGO sector, the Federal government controls the key policy areas which control the overall housing market. Housing policy on a federal level is really taxation policy.There is also exciting news brewing where the Sydney Alliance is seeking to bring together peak bodies, housing providers, local councils, community organisations, trade unions and others to develop a state campaign to encourage the inclusion of a minimum percentage of social and affordable housing on land that has received significant monetary gains through zoning uplifts. Hundreds of millions of dollars are often made at the stroke of a pen when land is rezoned to  high density residential or density is just simply increased. The concept of value sharing says that these profits, often split between business (developers) and government also needs to be shared with the community in the form of social and affordable housing being included on these development sites. We hope that you may hear a lot more about this campaign in the future, so just a heads up to our members that you may be approached soon with a view to asking for your support.

Finally we wish to welcome Integricare as a new member. Integricare is a large faith based organisation primarily engaged in child care but is considering diversifying their portfolio into the area of housing and/or housing services. We also welcome back Uniting (formerly UnitingCare), who are very active in housing provision, welfare services and advocacy. Churches Housing is first and foremost an association of its members working, networking, communicating, advocating, consulting, developing and providing feedback so we are very encouraged to see continued growth in the membership base.

Thanks and regards,Magnus Linder
Executive Officer