Cobar Shire Council has recognised an urgent need for a Local Housing Strategy to respond to shifting housing demands driven by increased mining activity, projected population growth and the diverse needs of the community. Housing in our shire is currently dominated by single family dwellings with significant gaps in the availability of affordable housing, aged care options, and accommodation for workers. These challenges are compounded by a disproportionately high rate of unoccupied private dwellings.

The Cobar Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2012 sets out standard provisions for managing the development of land but it’s not designated to provide strategic direction on housing needs, land suitability, or infrastructure servicing.

This project seeks to support the LEP by providing an evidence-based framework to guide housing policy and land use decisions

This project includes developing a Local Housing Strategy for Cobar, addressing current and future housing needs. It will guide the delivery of diverse, affordable and resilient housing options, ensuring efficient land use and infrastructure alignment to support sustainable community growth.