The Unlikely Rise of Co-Housing in Australia: What’s Behind the Shift?

The Australian dream has long been tied to homeownership, with the iconic quarter-acre block an enduring symbol of suburban aspirations. However, a quiet revolution is underway that challenges this conventional wisdom and offers a glimpse into a more communal future. Co-housing, once a fringe concept mainly associated with Europe, is gaining traction in Australia as people increasingly seek alternatives to traditional detached homes.

For some, the desire for co-housing stems from a longing for community and intergenerational connection in an age of social isolation. Research director Caitlin McGee at the UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures notes that family structures are changing, with people seeking support networks beyond their immediate families. Co-housing offers a way to bridge this gap, allowing residents to live together while maintaining a sense of autonomy.

The Brougham Street Collective in Melbourne’s leafy north-east is one such example, where 20 homes are being built around shared gardens and communal spaces. Developer Tim Riley’s vision for the project reflects a growing recognition that housing should be more than just a place to rest one’s head. The project includes on-site babysitting, eco-friendly power, and community cooking facilities.

The Wades’ experience illustrates the challenges of co-housing, however. Securing council approval can be a daunting task, with planners often struggling to categorize these unconventional developments. The $200,000 premium the couple paid to overcome bureaucratic hurdles underscores the complexities involved in creating intentional communities.

Australia’s property market has traditionally been driven by developer-led projects that prioritize profit over people. However, the federal government’s recent efforts to make housing more affordable – including restrictions on negative gearing for new builds – may be opening a door to new possibilities. By thinking beyond the traditional detached house model, Australians are starting to explore innovative ways of living together.

The growth in shared households is a significant trend in Australia, with 848,000 people now residing in group dwellings. According to Teresa Dominik from CoHousing Australia, this represents a broader shift towards more communal and sustainable forms of housing. While the numbers may be imprecise, there’s no denying the momentum behind this movement.

The development sector has long relied on detached houses as its bread and butter, with urban sprawl fueled by a preference for individual homes. However, experts warn that this model is no longer sustainable – environmentally or economically. By prioritizing co-housing, Australians may be ahead of the curve in recognizing the need for more integrated and people-focused development.

The experience of Vincent Murray, who became involved with Agency Cohousing and Community after being inspired by French village-style housing, highlights the appeal of co-housing for older Australians. As he notes, “the village concept seems perfect for transitioning to a different sort of life after work.” This sentiment is echoed by others in their 50s and 60s who are seeking community and connection in retirement.

While there’s still much to be done to support the growth of co-housing in Australia – including addressing regulatory hurdles and building more inclusive models – this movement offers a compelling vision for the future. It suggests that housing can be more than just a commodity, but a hub for connection and belonging. As Australians continue to explore new ways of living together, one thing is clear: the traditional detached house may not be the only game in town for much longer.