Horsham Rural City Council is inviting residents, businesses, and stakeholders to have their say on the future of housing in the municipality, as part of a six-week community consultation period for the draft Horsham and Natimuk Housing Diversity and Affordability Strategy.
The consultation period will run from 26 August to 7 October 2025, and Council is encouraging as many people as possible to get involved and have their say.
The draft strategy responds to the growing and changing housing needs of the Horsham region and aligns with the Victorian Government's Housing Statement and Plan for Victoria, which have set ambitious targets for housing supply across the state. For Horsham Rural City, this means planning for 3,300 new homes by 2051.
Mayor Cr Ian Ross said the strategy is a vital step in ensuring the municipality can meet future housing demand while maintaining the character and liveability of its towns and settlements.
"We know housing affordability and availability are pressing issues, not just in Horsham, but across Victoria," said Cr Ross.
"This strategy sets out a clear plan to guide housing growth in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our community. A supply of good quality housing is also a vital component of economic growth to attract and retain key workers. But we can't do it alone, we need to hear from you."
While Council play a key role in enabling housing supply, through land use planning, infrastructure coordination, and zoning decisions, they do not control housing construction or delivery.
The draft strategy highlights the need for Council to advocate strongly to other levels of government and industry, as housing delivery is influenced by complex factors such as construction costs, workforce shortages, financing, and broader economic conditions currently impacting supply.
The draft strategy outlines key directions for housing in Horsham and Natimuk, including:
- Consolidating growth in well-serviced areas to make the most of existing infrastructure
- Supporting more diverse housing types, including smaller homes, townhouses, and apartments
- Facilitating the development of social and affordable housing
- Protecting agricultural land and managing rural residential development
- Planning for infrastructure to support housing growth
The strategy also identifies preferred locations for medium density and more intensive forms of housing. It also sets out principles for future rezoning proposals to ensure new development delivers a net community benefit.
Cr Ross said the strategy was informed by extensive research and early community feedback in 2024.
"We've heard that people want more housing options, such as homes that suit older residents and the increasing number of single person households, key workers, and young families, including rental options. They want walkable neighbourhoods, green spaces, and housing that's affordable and sustainable," Cr Ross said.
"This consultation is your chance to shape the final strategy and help us plan for a future where everyone has access to safe, secure, and suitable housing."
