Published on Wednesday, 25 February 2026 at 1:52:10 PM
A 10-year Housing Strategy which aims to improve housing supply, diversity and affordability, support local economic development and workforce retention, and strengthen the Shire’s capacity to attract and retain residents has been adopted by the Council.
The Shire of Plantagenet Housing Strategy 2025-2035 was developed to investigate opportunities to positively influence housing-related initiatives at a local government level.
Shire President Len Handasyde said the strategy would provide an evidence-based framework to guide decision-making around housing over the next decade.
“While primary responsibility for housing lies with the State Government and private sector, there is clear support for additional housing development and initiatives that improve supply and affordability in our community,” Cr Handasyde said.
“Like much of WA, the Shire has experienced increasing pressure on housing availability, affordability and diversity in recent years.”
“Specific challenges to our community include an aging population, demand for smaller dwellings, and the attraction and retention of key workers.”
The strategy identifies planning, infrastructure and policy actions to enable housing delivery, and was informed by the analysis of demographic data, housing supply and demand trends, market conditions, planning and infrastructure constraints, and community and industry engagement.
“The feedback received from more than 245 households through the resident housing survey and industry housing survey provided valuable insight into housing needs across the Shire,” Cr Handasyde said.
“One of the strongest messages was the need for greater housing choice to support people at different life stages, from young families and key workers to retirees and older residents.”
“Almost half of the households surveyed indicated their housing needs were likely to change over the next decade, highlighting the importance of planning for future demand.”
“The survey also highlighted community support for well-planned growth, with 68 per cent of respondents supporting more diverse housing types, such as smaller homes, units and townhouses, within the existing townsite.”
“The Council is pleased to adopt this strategy and will continue to prioritise improvements in planning, advocate for investment, and work with State agencies, housing providers and the private sector to improve housing outcomes for our community.”
The Shire will commence a review of its Local Planning Strategy this year, which will further consider housing needs and how land use planning can support a sustainable future for the community.
The Shire of Plantagenet Housing Strategy 2025-2035 was adopted at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 24 February 2026. The meeting agenda, which provides further context, is available here.
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