Implementation plans > Housing > Actions > Action 3

Action 3
Lead by example

Provide a range of housing in Transit Cities developments
Lead agent: DOI with government departments, agencies, local governments and other key stakeholders
The Transit Cities program can support the Melbourne 2030 objectives of higher-density housing at strategic redevelopment sites, and more well-located affordable housing. It also provides an opportunity for innovative, high-quality development in urban precincts around key transport nodes.

DOI will work with all stakeholders, including the private sector, to identify opportunities and develop techniques and solutions to ensure that a range of housing types for different market segments is provided in Transit Cities.

Through the Transit Cities program, DOI will work with the non-profit sector as well as the private sector to provide for a mix of affordable housing, and will liaise with the Office of Housing and other departments and agencies to promote a whole-of-government response to opportunities for residential, commercial, institutional and governmental development and investment in Transit Cities.

Techniques may include site assembly and site preparation, public works, closure of redundant roads, structure planning, identification of an appropriate mix of uses and development, including housing.

The Transit Cities program will emphasise the promotion and delivery of affordable housing generally, as well as social housing in locations requested by the Office of Housing.

Make best use of surplus government land
Lead agent: DOI with other government departments
Surplus government land can present an opportunity to help provide affordable, social and community housing. Past practice has been to dispose of government land at the best commercial rates. This does not always achieve good social outcomes.

The policy that governs the disposal of government land will be changed to reflect the best use rather than the highest price achievable, based on new socially responsible criteria. Where land is surplus, it will first be tested against its ability to meet local housing needs.

DOI will work with the Office of Housing and central agencies to develop appropriate protocols for disposing of surplus government land to ensure consideration of environmental, social and economic factors.