Central Coast Residents Share Concerns Over Housing Affordability Crisis

The Central Coast is facing a housing affordability crisis, with the median house price now sitting at $942,000, a 15% increase from this time last year.

This issue matters now because the region is experiencing rapid growth, driven by its proximity to Sydney and the aspiration for fast rail links. The Gosford CBD renewal project, aimed at revitalising the city centre, has also led to increased interest in the area, further driving up prices. As a result, long-time residents are finding it difficult to afford housing, and the character of neighbourhoods like East Gosford and Wyoming is under threat.

In specific areas like The Entrance and Long Jetty, community members are feeling the pinch. The Central Coast Council, still recovering from administration, has implemented programs like the Housing Affordability Strategy, which aims to increase the supply of affordable housing. Organisations like the Central Coast Community Council and the Regional Development Australia Central Coast committee are also working to address the issue. For example, the council has partnered with the not-for-profit organisation, Community Housing Ltd, to develop affordable housing projects in areas like Tuggerah and Berkeley Vale.

The Human Impact

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that the number of renters in the Central Coast region has increased by 25% in the past five years, with the average rent for a three-bedroom house now sitting at $650 per week. This has led to concerns about housing stress, with 37% of households in the region experiencing some level of housing stress, according to a report by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment. The report also notes that the Central Coast has one of the highest proportions of low-income households in NSW, with 23% of households earning less than $50,000 per year.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, community members are calling for urgent action. The Central Coast Council has committed to delivering 4,000 new affordable homes by 2030, but residents are concerned that this may not be enough to meet demand. With the next council meeting scheduled for August 15, residents are being encouraged to have their say on the issue. In the meantime, organisations like the Central Coast Homelessness Service are providing support to those struggling to afford housing, and community groups like the Central Coast Affordable Housing Alliance are advocating for policy changes to address the crisis.