Housing Construction Workshops

On 3rd November 2006, Territory Housing’s Management Board hosted the first, in what is expected to be a series of targeted workshops, aimed at identifying and delivering solutions that will drive down the cost of building in the bush.

The housing shortage in the bush is being addressed with a new approach to construction along with an increase in funding. The Chief Minister recently announced an additional $100 million in funding over five years for remote housing as part of a 20 year plan to improve outcomes for Indigenous Territorians.

The ever-escalating cost of construction, particularly in remote communities requires a serious and sustained effort towards reducing costs and achieving the best value for money for this significant investment made by the Northern Territory Government. This doesn’t just mean more houses in remote areas, it is also necessary to expand training and ongoing employment opportunities for people living in the bush.

During the workshop, industry representatives presented different low cost housing models, describing how they had reduced construction costs by using innovative materials, design and new models. Importantly, workshop participants saw the possibilities that could be achieved, and identified priority areas that need to be addressed to move forward. It was acknowledged at the workshop that further consideration is required regarding contracting and procurement; land use approvals; community capacity and information management to deliver Government’s objectives for remote housing.

All of this will require extensive and close consultation and collaboration with and between Government, the private sector, industry, Indigenous organisations and communities, all of whom will be invited to contribute to future workshops.

Minister McAdam has expressed confidence that this workshop and those that follow will produce positive outcomes for people in the bush.