Raise rental problem in housing discussion, says Tesch
Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch has suggested residents use the council's housing strategy discussion paper as an opportunity to discuss the lack of availability of rental properties.
"Locals are struggling and if we do not make an adequate plan, then we will only continue to price out our vulnerable community members," she said.
"Price increases have put house purchase and rent prices well beyond people's means.
"Sadly we are already seeing the repercussions of this, with a spike in homelessness.
"Unaffordable housing also forces our most vulnerable into even more precarious situations, especially those facing domestic violence, or those who are elderly with health issues and can no longer afford the skyrocketing rent prices.
"Years of underinvestment in social housing has made a bad situation worse, with growing waiting lists and insufficient rental assistance."
Ms Tesch said Central Coast Council had opened up the conversation on housing, with community consultation on the Central Coast Local Housing Strategy Discussion Paper now open.
The paper looks at options for accommodating the projected 41,500 additional homes needed by 2036.
"These are conversations that we really need to have."
The Central Coast Local Housing Strategy Discussion Paper will be open for comment until February 28 and can be accessed here: https://www.yourvoiceourcoast.com/housing.
SOURCE:
Media release, 16 Feb 2022
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford