A cardboard home

More homes, more housing choice (Council News Article November 2026)

Someone holding a cardboard home

Council is taking a leading role in advocating for more affordable and social housing. We have been a member of the Regional Local Government Homelessness and Social Housing Charter Group since it was established in 2020. Together with 12 partner councils, we champion practical solutions that increase housing supply, improve affordability and help prevent homelessness.

This month, we will host the launch of the updated Regional Local Government Homelessness and Social Housing Charter. The event will bring together mayors, CEOs and senior staff from our 12 participating councils to reaffirm their commitment to a shared housing advocacy agenda and renewed action to increase affordable and social housing.

Mayor Councillor Sophie Tan said housing affordability remains one of the biggest challenges facing our community.

"Everyone deserves access to a safe and secure place to call home, yet too many people are struggling to find housing they can afford. We need all levels of government working together to increase the supply of affordable and social housing and support people experiencing housing stress"

Housing costs in Greater Dandenong have risen faster than incomes for decades, placing increasing pressure on very low and low-income households.

Through our housing advocacy, we are calling for action on several key priorities, including:

► More social and affordable housing
► A local pilot to support faster and more affordable housing delivery
► Fairer planning and tax settings to unlock housing opportunities
► Better support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness
► Stronger homelessness prevention and early intervention

By working with our regional partners and advocating to State and Federal Governments, we are helping ensure more people can access safe, affordable housing close to jobs, transport and services.

To explore all eight Regional Local Government Homelessness and Social Housing Charter advocacy priorities, visit our Housing Charter webpage.