UPDATE: A shocking report reveals that there were zero affordable rental homes available for essential workers in Sutherland Shire during a state-wide survey on March 15-16, 2023. This urgent finding underscores a critical shortage of housing that impacts the very backbone of our communities.
The survey conducted by Anglicare Sydney reviewed 17,028 rental listings across New South Wales (NSW) and found that only 1% of properties in Greater Sydney were classified as affordable for essential workers. Alarmingly, both Sutherland Shire and the Northern Beaches reported no listings at all.
Essential workers, including those in the health and education sectors, as well as personnel from NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW, and the Department of Communities & Justice, are increasingly being priced out of the areas where they serve. Simon Miller, Chief Executive of Anglicare Sydney, stated,
“Nurses, aged care workers, teachers, hospitality and social services staff are the backbone of our communities, yet they are unable to afford to live in the communities in which they work.”
The implications of this housing crisis are profound. Essential workers are often forced into long commutes, leading to increased transport costs and sacrificing valuable personal and family time. Miller emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling for immediate policy changes and development initiatives to address the crisis.
In an effort to combat this issue, the Sutherland Shire Council has proposed an Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme. This plan would require developers in areas rezoned for higher density to pay a levy aimed at supporting affordable housing projects. However, this scheme has yet to be implemented, leaving essential workers in precarious living situations.
As the number of developers opting for building bonuses increases by including affordable rental options, the urgency for action grows. The community is left to wonder: what happens next? Will these proposed solutions come to fruition in time to assist those who serve us daily?
With essential workers facing mounting challenges, the call for practical solutions has never been more pressing. Anglicare’s commitment to advocating for these changes is critical as the community looks for ways to ensure that those who contribute to our society can afford to live within it.
This developing story highlights the need for immediate attention and action from both local authorities and the government to ensure that essential workers are not left behind in the housing crisis. Share this urgent news to raise awareness and advocate for change in your community.
