Mobile housing expert: Councils are deliberately hindering affordable housing solutions
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 05 Feb 2025
As the housing crisis intensifies across Australia, many families are turning to an innovative, Australian manufactured housing solution: affordable relocatable and expandable homes on wheels for their backyards. This option allows families to care for aging loved ones without resorting to prohibitively expensive retirement villages or face the prospect of homelessness in their retirement years.
While the New South Wales (NSW) Government leads the way in facilitating this initiative through the NSW legislation - Local Government (Manufactured Homes Estates, Caravan Parks, Camping Grounds, and Moveable Dwellings) Regulations 2021, Subdivision 3, 77(b), which allows for the placement of these affordable homes on private properties, a handful of NSW councils and other states' councils continue to impose hurdles that complicate the process.
Vito Russo, founder and CEO of VanHomes emphasised that by adopting a more proactive and supportive approach, local councils in all states could play a pivotal role in alleviating the housing shortage that affects both old and young Australians.
Russo explained there is an urgent need for local councils in all states to facilitate the installation of these innovative homes that can be setup in a backyard in a matter of hours and be easily relocated when circumstances change.
"These homes offer a spacious, compassionate, cost-effective alternative for families who wish to support their loved ones while preserving their independence," Russo stated.
"The costs associated with traditional retirement villages are prohibitively high for some people and the ongoing fees and exit charges can be overwhelming. Families are increasingly seeking alternatives to maintain dignity and control over their loved ones' living conditions."
Customisable, affordable housing solution
Relocatable and expandable homes can be customised in size, colour and interior design, offering families a range of affordable options.
"These homes provide a fast and efficient solution for families wishing to move elderly relatives nearby," Russo explained.
"Australian made relocatable and expandable homes offer the comfort of traditional granny flats, but at a fraction of the cost. They can easily be towed into backyards or craned into place, making the installation process straightforward. Delivered one day, move in the next!"
A modern stylish living solution
"The designs of these homes have evolved significantly, featuring stylish living spaces, bedrooms and bathrooms. They can also connect seamlessly to existing home utilities, ensuring a high level of comfort for elderly residents," Russo said.
"Elderly individuals value their independence but also cherish being close to family for support. These homes enable families to provide essential care while ensuring their loved ones maintain privacy and autonomy."
Call for councils in all states to align to eliminate barriers
Russo is calling on councils in all states to eliminate barriers, which in some cases prioritise revenue over the welfare of families.
"We are in the midst of a housing, aged care and cost of living crisis. Councils should facilitate the installation of relocatable homes, not impose hurdles that only serve to frustrate families," he urged.
He is also advocating for increased accountability among councils that engage in obstructive practices, suggesting that state governments penalise councils that hinder community welfare and fail to proactively address the housing crisis in their local area.
"This isn't just about housing, it is about keeping families together and enhancing the quality of life for our elderly community members," Russo concluded.
About VanHomes
Founded in 2008, VanHomes has grown from a small team of two to over 150 professionals by 2025, reflecting the increasing demand for affordable and flexible housing solutions in Australia. The company offers a range of relocatable and expandable homes, from studio apartments to four- bedroom homes, all of which can be delivered to virtually any property.