Lake Macquarie Labor councillor Keara Conroy has highlighted the urgent need for higher-density housing in the region, acknowledging that such growth may be “uncomfortable” for some residents. This call to action comes as data reveals a staggering 34 percent decrease in housing affordability over the past decade, prompting significant concern among local leaders and community members.
On Monday night, the Lake Macquarie City Council unanimously endorsed its 20-year vision for the city through the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) 2025-2045. Among the most alarming statistics detailed in the statement is the sharp decline in affordable housing within the local government area. In 2015, the area recorded 1,223 affordable dwellings, accounting for 36 percent of all residential sales. By 2023, this number plummeted to just 65 affordable homes, representing a mere 2 percent of sales. The availability of affordable rentals also saw a decline, dropping to 19.4 percent of properties.
Current market data from the Cotality Home Value Index indicates that as of October 2025, the median sale price of homes in western Lake Macquarie stands at $923,728, with units averaging $667,725. Prices are even higher on the eastern side of the lake, where units reach a median value of $738,474.
“If we know where housing prices are, they’ve probably only gotten worse since 2023,” Cr Conroy stated. She emphasized the importance of adapting the built environment to cater to diverse community needs, stating, “While it can be uncomfortable for people to have a different built landscape in their local suburb, it’s actually really important.”
The councillor underscored the necessity of affordable housing not only for long-term residents looking to downsize but also for essential workers, such as childcare staff and council personnel, who often find themselves priced out of the local market. “I want an inclusive city where people feel they belong and can access the facilities within our urban centres,” she remarked.
The North Ward, which Cr Conroy represents, is poised to accommodate a significant share of Lake Macquarie’s future medium- to high-density housing. The LSPS designates Charlestown and Glendale as “strategic centres” suitable for such development, which may include residential towers exceeding seven storeys, with a density target of 75 dwellings per hectare. Other strategic centres identified include Morisset and Belmont, while Cockle Creek has been marked as an “emerging strategic centre.”
Several suburbs, including Boolaroo, Cameron Park, and Toronto, are classified as “local centres” capable of supporting medium-density housing, targeting 50 dwellings per hectare.
Recently, residents of Argenton formed a committee to oppose Iris Capital’s proposal for a new development featuring 300 apartments above the Argenton Hotel. The project is anticipated to allocate only 3 to 5 percent of its units as affordable housing. While Cr Conroy did not comment specifically on this development, she affirmed her support for increased high-density housing, stating, “Not in every case, but in many cases, I will be found to be supporting the higher-density developments based on the need for affordable housing.”
Lake Macquarie’s population is projected to rise from 222,000 in 2024 to 260,000 by 2046, with the average household size expected to be 2.5 people. Notably, one-person households and couples without children are anticipated to comprise 54 percent of all households by that time. Cr Conroy also addressed the growing need for housing solutions for elderly residents wishing to downsize while remaining in familiar communities.
“Many older residents want to live in the area they have known for years and prefer smaller, less maintenance-intensive options like apartments or villas,” she explained. “Maintaining these community connections is vital for overall wellbeing, helping to prevent loneliness and social isolation.”
Independent West Ward councillor Kate Warner voiced her support for the council’s long-term vision as well but highlighted the necessity of ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with population growth. “We need to maintain a balance of the needs and wants in our community while supporting housing growth,” she stated. “Liveability and connectivity are critical issues that we must address as we plan for the future.”
