A recent report has revealed that many households in Bathurst are struggling with housing stress due to soaring property prices. The findings, published in the Bathurst Housing Monitor by the Bathurst Regional Council in February 2026, highlight a troubling trend: a significant proportion of local residents are spending more than 30 per cent of their income on housing costs, which is the benchmark for defining housing stress.
According to data from the 2021 Census, approximately 7 per cent of all households with a mortgage in Bathurst are feeling the strain. The situation is even more dire for renters, where 20 per cent of local households are classified as under rental stress. This issue predominantly affects very low, low, and moderate-income households, which together account for 48 per cent of Bathurst’s population.
For very low-income households with mortgages, the numbers are alarming, with 50 per cent experiencing housing stress. Among very low-income renters, that figure rises to 71 per cent. While low and moderate-income households fare slightly better, they are still significantly impacted by the escalating costs of both purchasing and renting properties.
The data illustrates a sharp increase in property prices between 2019 and 2025. Median house prices surged from $440,000 to $705,000, reflecting a 60 per cent rise. Similarly, unit prices increased by 54 per cent, climbing from $292,500 to $450,000. Rental costs for houses and units also saw substantial hikes of 42 per cent and 56 per cent respectively during the same period.
The rental market has tightened as well, with vacancy rates dropping from 2.64 per cent in 2019 to just 1.15 per cent in 2025. This decline makes it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to find affordable housing options.
In response to these challenges, council staff stated, “The Bathurst Housing Monitor confirms that Bathurst is experiencing significant housing affordability and supply challenges, particularly for very-low and low-income households, including key workers.” They emphasized the need for proactive measures to enhance housing choice, diversity, and affordability through strategic planning and policy review.
The Bathurst Regional Council plans to revisit its Housing Strategy 2036, aiming to secure funding for a comprehensive review. The council is committed to taking steps to increase the supply of housing and provide better options for residents. This includes supporting medium-density housing in suitable locations, promoting smaller dwelling formats, and encouraging mixed-use developments near essential services and public transport.
Council staff reiterated their commitment to addressing the housing issue: “Council is continuing to undertake a range of actions under its Housing Strategy to encourage greater housing supply and to support opportunities for better housing choice and diversity.” As the situation evolves, the council hopes to explore innovative solutions that could improve housing affordability for all residents.
