Muswellbrook Shire is expected to undergo a period of significant transition over the next two decades, largely driven by the closure of mines and power stations that have long driven the local economy.
Along with this transition comes uncertainty regarding future population projections and demographics, and in turn, demand for housing. Council must navigate this uncertainty to support continued investment and housing renewal, and avoid a cycle of decay, thus ensuring the local community have homes that match their needs.
Funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund, we worked with Council to develop its vision for the future of housing.
In collaboration with Council’s planning team, Astrolabe developed Muswellbrook’s Local Housing Strategy that seeks to:
Astrolabe’s methodology involved developing a robust evidence base to identify how the Shire’s population, housing supply and economic conditions have changed over time, and draw out the impact that this has on housing demand and preferences, affordability and development feasibility.
We also engaged with a range of key local stakeholders – from support services, to real estate agents and the Local Aboriginal Land Council – to gain a deeper understanding of housing needs and preferences. This engagement was complimented by a community survey to collect insights on housing preferences and challenges.
The Local Housing Strategy was adopted by Council in February 2025. The Strategy sets out five key directions and 22 associated actions for Council to deliver and/or support, to ensure it can meet evolving housing needs over the next two decades.
The Strategy can be found here – https://www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Muswellbrook-Shire-Local-Housing-Strategy.pdf
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