The Great Australian Housing Scheme

The Great Australian Housing Scheme is a transformative initiative I’ve come up with that is aimed at addressing Australia’s significant housing crisis.

We need to build 1.2 million homes over five years and I came up with a way I thought we might best have a chance of achieving that.

For those that haven’t read my earlier articles, it’s about building 1.2 Million Identical Homes and all of the various ways that doing things this particular way increases the chances for success.

With my projected cost of $729 billion, the scheme emphasizes community involvement, job creation, and economic growth through a multi-faceted funding model and standardized construction practices.

It seeks to stabilize the housing market, reduce homelessness and foster regional development while ensuring financial sustainability and social cohesion.

Please Note: This article is part of a series and I encourage reading with:

1.    How To Build 1.2 Million Homes In 5 Years.

2.    Funding The Great Australian Housing Scheme.

3.    Building And Construction National Service.

Table of Contents.

1.0 Introduction and Overview.

2.0 Funding Model and Financial Structure.

3.0 Implementation Strategy and Construction Approach.

4.0 The Building And Construction National Service.

5.0 Social and Economic Impacts.

6.0 Conclusion and Future Outlook.

1.0 Introduction and Overview.

The Great Australian Housing Scheme is an ambitious housing initiative that I came up with whilst writing one of my articles titled: How To Build 1200000 Homes In 5 Years.

My ideas are a bit ‘out there’ in this space but designed to address the nation’s escalating housing crisis through a comprehensive and innovative approach.

My proposal suggests that constructing 1.2 million identical homes over a five-year period might just give us a chance of getting it done, although I will say that that is still a wafer thin chance at best.

I thought to combine elements of national investment, standardized construction and community participation and a few other bits and pieces to make it all work.

1.1 Origins and Purpose.

The scheme emerged as my response to Australia’s unprecedented housing crisis, of which, I’m one of those people that has been caused by irresponsible overly high immigration policy.

However it was caused, we’ve got a monthly situation of increasing numbers of people in Australia struggling to find affordable and secure accommodation for themselves and their families.

I have drawn some inspiration from successful national campaigns like war bonds and my initiative seeks to mobilize the collective financial strength and spirit of the nation, similar to how Australians united during times of national necessity all those many years ago.

1.2 Core Objectives.

The scheme’s primary objectives include:

1.    Rapidly increasing housing supply through the construction of 1.2 million homes.

2.    Stabilizing the housing market through standardized construction.

3.    Reducing homelessness and improving housing accessibility.

4.    Creating substantial employment opportunities.

5.    Stimulating economic growth through large-scale construction.

6.    Fostering regional development through strategic location selection.

1.3 Financial Scale.

With an estimated total project cost of $729 billion over five years, the scheme would surely be a very significant national investment into Australia’s future.

This substantial financial commitment reflects both the scale of the housing crisis and the comprehensive nature of the proposed solution.

1.4 Strategic Approach.

The scheme would adopt a multi-faceted approach to implementation and be focussed on:

1.    Standardized design and mass production to achieve economies of scale.

2.    Centralized manufacturing processes to optimize efficiency.

3.    Strategic selection of regional centers for development.

4.    Comprehensive supply chain optimization.

5.    Innovative funding models combining public and private investment.

6.    Streamlined approval processes to expedite construction.

1.5 Community Focus.

Beyond its base practical objectives, the scheme would aim to foster a sense of national unity and collective responsibility.

By enabling widespread participation through various investment options and creating opportunities for community involvement, the initiative seeks to build not just houses, but stronger, more connected communities across this once lucky country “Australia”.

2.0 Funding Model and Financial Structure.

The Great Australian Housing Scheme would employ an innovative and multi-layered funding approach, combining traditional investment methods with creative financing solutions to secure the estimated $729 billion required for the project’s completion.

2.1 National Investment Program.

2.1.1 Investment Structure.

1.    Minimum investment: $50.

2.    Maximum investment: $50 million.

3.    Investment units: $5 per unit.

4.    Accessible to all Australian citizens.

5.    Annual dividend payments based on property sales and rental income.

2.1.2 Fund Management.

1.    10% of funds maintained in a government account.

2.    Remaining 90% distributed across major banks:

a.    Westpac

b.    Commonwealth

c.    NAB

d.    ANZ

3.    Interest earned on unused funds.

4.    Strict withdrawal protocols for approved project works.

5.    Severe penalties (criminal prosecution) for fund misuse.

6.    Oversight by non-financial board of six members.

2.2 The National Housing Lottery.

2.2.1 Lottery Structure.

1.    Monthly draws.

2.    Ticket price: $5.

3.    Prize pool: $10 million per draw.

4.    Draws held once all tickets are sold.

5.    Continuous funding stream generation.

2.2.2 Government Backing.

1.    We would need a Government commitment to purchase remaining shares if full funding not achieved and maybe this could be split over all of the states/territories and federal govt.

2.    Additional security and confidence for investors.

3.    Guaranteed project continuation.

2.3 Government Contributions and Incentives.

2.3.1 Multi-Level Government Support:

1.    Federal tax incentives.

2.    State government contributions.

3.    Local government incentives.

4.    Streamlined approval processes.

2.3.2 Asset Optimization:

1.    Sale of government-owned media (ABC & SBS I estimate $3.5 billion)

2.    Public service salary optimization (projected $140 million over five years)

3.    Strategic resource allocation.

2.4 Financial Security Measures.

2.4.1 Risk Management:

1.    Government oversight of all financial transactions.

2.    Regular auditing and compliance checks.

3.    Transparent reporting systems.

4.    Protected investment structure.

2.4.2 Return on Investment:

1.    Property sales and rental income generating returns.

2.    Regular dividend payments to investors.

3.    Long-term value creation through asset appreciation.

4.    Secure investment backed by physical assets.

2.5 Economic Benefits.

2.5.1 Direct Benefits:

1.    Job creation in construction and related industries.

2.    Regional economic development.

3.    Increased housing supply.

4.    Market stabilization.

2.5.2 Indirect Benefits:

1.    Supply chain stimulation.

2.    Service industry growth.

3.    Infrastructure development..

4.    Community development and growth

2.6 Financial Sustainability.

2.6.1 Long-term Viability:

1.    Continuous revenue generation through property management.

2.    Sustainable funding model through multiple sources.

3.    Balanced risk distribution.

4.    Market-responsive pricing strategies.

2.6.2 Economic Impact Management:

1.    Controlled release of housing stock.

2.    Strategic pricing mechanisms.

3.    Market stabilization measures.

4.    Regional development considerations.

3.0 Implementation Strategy and Construction Approach.

The Great Australian Housing Scheme would adopt a strategic approach to large-scale housing development, emphasizing efficiency, standardization, and regional development through carefully planned implementation phases and construction methods.

3.1 Regional Development Centres.

3.1.1 Strategic Location Selection:

Five key regional centres have been identified for development:

1.    Tamworth (NSW).

2.    Narrabri (NSW).

3.    Wandoan (QLD).

4.    Sale (VIC).

5.    Geraldton (WA).

3.1.2 Native Title Considerations for Regional Development.

1.    Tamworth (NSW): A significant portion of New South Wales is subject to native title claims. Any proposed development would need to carefully consider and address potential native title rights and interests in consultation with Traditional Owners.

2.    Narrabri (NSW): The area has seen native title claims related to other projects, indicating the importance of thorough engagement with local Aboriginal communities and proper legal processes.

3.    Wandoan (QLD): Native title rights exist over substantial areas surrounding Wandoan, including national parks. Developers would need to work closely with Traditional Owners and relevant authorities to ensure respect for these rights.

4.    Sale (VIC): While specific native title information for Sale was not readily available, Victoria has numerous native title claims. It would be prudent to investigate potential claims in the area and engage with local Aboriginal groups.

5.    Geraldton (WA): Western Australia has many native title claims, and any development would need to consider these rights carefully. Consultation with local Aboriginal communities and legal experts would be essential.

Importance of Engagement and Consultation:

For any large-scale housing development in these areas, it is crucial for government bodies and developers to:

1.    Engage early and meaningfully with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

2.    Seek expert legal advice on native title matters.

3.    Conduct thorough research on existing and potential native title claims.

4.    Work collaboratively to find solutions that respect native title rights while addressing housing needs.

5.    Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations.

By taking a respectful and inclusive approach, it’s possible to develop projects that benefit all community members while honouring the rights and cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

3.1.3 Location Rationale:

1.    Abundant space for development.

2.    Reduced environmental constraints compared to coastal areas.

3.    Plenty of future growth potential.

4.    Opportunity for these regions to be vitalized.

5.    Minimal to Nil NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) opposition.

6.    Potential for vast future expansion into megacity development.

7.    Possible international airport development opportunities.

3.2 Construction Methodology.

3.2.1 Standardized Design:

1.    Identical home designs across all locations.

2.    Economies of scale through mass production.

3.    Streamlined approval processes.

4.    Consistent quality control.

5.    Optimised material usage.

6.    Reduced construction timeframes.

3.2.2 Manufacturing Approach:

1.    Centralized manufacturing facilities.

2.    Supply chain optimisation.

3.    Quality control standardization.

4.    Prefabrication opportunities.

5.    Efficient material distribution.

6.    Waste reduction strategies.

3.3 Land Management.

3.3.1 Land Acquisition Strategy:

1.    Streamlined compulsory acquisition processes.

2.    Fast-track rezoning mechanisms.

3.    Agricultural land conversion where necessary.

4.    Fair compensation frameworks.

5.    Strategic buffer zone planning.

3.3.2 Development Zones:

1.    Special development zone designation.

2.    Pre-approved residential zoning.

3.    Simplified environmental assessment processes.

4.    Infrastructure coordination.

5.    Future expansion consideration.

3.4 Infrastructure Development.

3.4.1 Essential Services:

1.    Water and sewerage systems.

2.    Electricity distribution.

3.    Communications networks.

4.    Road and transport infrastructure.

5.    Community facilities.

3.4.2 Social Infrastructure:

1.    Educational facilities:

a.    Early Childhood, ages 3-5.

b.    Primary School, ages 5-12.

c.    High School/Secondary School, ages 12-18.

d.    Tertiary, University Degrees, Vocational Education And Training (VET), and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutes.

2.    Healthcare services:

a.    Doctors Surgeries (GP Centres):

                                 i.    At least 4 centres per area.

                                ii.    Options for Doctors & Nurses to live local or FIFO/DIDO with 5 Star Accommodation Centre to be built for them.

b.    Specialist Hubs at each area as either:

o   Extensions of existing hospitals or

o   Part of New Satellite Hospitals that will need to be built to cater for a range of services, including:

§  Limited Emergency Medicine.

§  Limited Day Surgery.

§  Kidney dialysis.

§  Skin Cancer Treatment.

§  Rehabilitation services.

§  Specialist Rooms:

·        Urology.

·        Neurology & Spinal Specialisation.

·        Dermatology / Mohs Surgeon.

·        Nephrology (Kidney Specialist).

·        Mental Health Specialists.

·        Oncology (Medical, Radiation, Surgical) and

·        Breast cancer specialist nurses.

3.    Community centres.

4.    Recreational facilities.

5.    Shopping and commercial areas.

3.5 Resource Management.

3.5.1 Material Supply:

1.    National materials priority system.

2.    Bulk purchasing arrangements.

3.    Storage and distribution networks.

4.    Quality control measures.

5.    Waste management protocols.

3.5.2 Equipment Coordination:

1.    National construction equipment sharing network.

2.    Maintenance and repair systems.

3.    Logistics coordination.

4.    Efficiency optimisation.

5.    Resource allocation management.

3.6 Implementation Timeline.

3.6.1 Phase 1 (Months 1-6):

1.    Regulatory framework establishment.

2.    Initial land acquisition.

3.    Planning approvals.

4.    Infrastructure planning.

5.    Supply chain establishment.

3.6.2 Phase 2 (Months 7-12):

1.    Infrastructure development.

2.    Manufacturing facility setup.

3.    Material supply coordination.

4.    Workforce mobilization.

5.    Initial construction preparation.

3.6.3 Phase 3 (Years 2-5):

1.    Full-scale construction implementation.

2.    Continuous process optimisation.

3.    Regular progress monitoring.

4.    Quality assurance.

5.    Community development.

6.    Ongoing infrastructure expansion.

3.7 Quality Control and Monitoring.

3.7.1 Construction Standards:

1.    Standardized quality metrics.

2.    Regular inspections.

3.    compliance monitoring.

4.    Performance tracking.

5.    Continuous improvement processes.

3.7.2 Progress Tracking:

1.    Real-time monitoring systems.

2.    Regular reporting mechanisms.

3.    Milestone achievement tracking.

4.    Risk assessment and management.

5.    Performance optimisation strategies.

4.0 The Building And Construction National Service.

To address the critical shortage of skilled construction workers needed for this ambitious project, the scheme incorporates a comprehensive workforce development program through the Building And Construction National Service (BACNS).

4.1 Program Overview.

4.1.1 Core Structure:

1.    9-year service commitment.

2.    Training in three fully accredited building and construction trades.

3.    Annual intake of 26,000 participants.

4.    Centralized training facility in Muswellbrook, NSW.

5.    Combined mandatory and voluntary service model.

4.1.2 Participant Demographics:

1.    Age range: 18-38 years:

2.    Mandatory service: Ages 18-28 (70% of intake).

3.    Voluntary service: Ages 28-38 (30% of intake).

4.    Annual intake breakdown:

a.    18,200 mandatory participants.

b.    7,800 voluntary participants.

4.2 Training Structure.

4.2.1 Initial Training:

1.    3-month military-style recruit training

2.    One month learning basics of each military branch:

a.    Army

b.    Navy

c.    Air Force

3.    3-week practical military experience (one week per branch)

4.2.2 Trade Training:

1.    Three complete trade qualifications over service period.

2.    3 x 120-day intensive training blocks at Muswellbrook campus.

3.    On-the-job practical experience.

4.    Continuous skill development.

5.    Industry-recognized certifications (Australia Wide).

4.3 Working Conditions.

4.3.1 Work Schedule:

·        41-hour work week

·        Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM

·        Friday: 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM

·        4 weeks annual leave

·        Standard sick leave entitlements

4.3.2 Compensation Structure:

·        First-year salary: $50,000

·        Annual salary increase: $7,000

·        Final year salary: $106,000

·        Income tax capped at 10% after tax-free threshold

·        $10,000 tax-free completion bonus

·        Minimal living expenses during service

4.4 Career Progression.

4.4.1 Post-Service Options:

1.    Private sector employment with three trade qualifications

2.    Extended service options:

a.    Additional 3-year service with higher salary

                                 i.    Year 1: $120,000

                                ii.    Year 2: $132,000

                              iii.    Year 3: $144,000

3.    Department of Defence opportunities:

a.    Building And Construction Specialist (Pay Level 6)

4.    Instructor pathway:

a.    Additional training after extended service

b.    Starting salary: $156,000

c.    Standard tax rates apply

4.4.2 Professional Development:

1.    Ongoing skill enhancement

2.    Leadership training opportunities

3.    Specialization options

4.    Industry networking

5.    Career advancement pathways

4.5 Training Facility.

4.5.1 Creation Of A Very Large Muswellbrook Campus:

1.    State-of-the-art training facilities

2.    Self-sufficient township hub

3.    Accommodation for trainees and staff

4.    Modern equipment and resources

5.    Practical training areas

4.5.2 Support Infrastructure:

1.    Medical facilities.

2.    Recreational areas.

3.    Educational resources.

4.    Housing facilities.

5.    Community amenities.

4.6 Program Benefits.

4.6.1 Individual Benefits:

1.    Multiple trade qualifications.

2.    Guaranteed employment.

3.    Financial security.

4.    Career advancement opportunities.

5.    Valuable work experience.

6.    Tax advantages.

4.6.2 National Benefits:

1.    Skilled workforce development.

2.    Housing crisis resolution.

3.    Economic growth.

4.    Regional development.

5.    Industry sustainability.

6.    National infrastructure enhancement.

4.7 Quality Assurance.

4.7.1 Training Standards:

1.    Industry-aligned curriculum.

2.    Regular assessment protocols.

3.    Professional certification.

4.    Continuous improvement.

5.    Performance monitoring.

4.7.2 Program Monitoring:

1.    Regular program evaluation.

2.    Participant feedback systems.

3.    Industry consultation.

4.    Outcome measurement.

5.    Adaptive improvement strategies.

5.0 Social and Economic Impacts.

The Great Australian Housing Scheme represents more than just a construction project; it embodies a transformative initiative with far-reaching social and economic implications for Australian society.

5.1 Housing Market Stabilization.

5.1.1 Market Impact:

1.    Introduction of 1.2 million new homes.

2.    Increased housing supply to meet demand.

3.    Price stabilization in property market.

4.    Reduced housing speculation.

5.    Improved housing affordability.

6.    More balanced rental market.

5.1.2 Accessibility Improvements:

1.    Increased housing options for first-time buyers.

2.    Enhanced rental availability.

3.    Reduced housing stress.

4.    Greater housing security.

5.    Improved social mobility.

6.    More equitable housing distribution.

5.2 Regional Development.

5.2.1 Community Growth:

1.    Development of new regional centres.

2.    Population decentralization from coastal cities.

3.    Creation of sustainable communities.

4.    Enhanced regional infrastructure.

5.    Improved regional services.

6.    New economic opportunities.

5.2.2 Infrastructure Enhancement:

1.    New transportation networks.

2.    Improved community facilities.

3.    Enhanced public services.

4.    Modern utilities infrastructure.

5.    Digital connectivity.

6.    Sustainable development practices.

5.3 Economic Benefits.

5.3.1 Employment Generation:

1.    Direct construction jobs.

2.    Indirect support industries.

3.    Service sector growth.

4.    Professional services expansion.

5.    Training and education opportunities.

6.    Long-term maintenance positions.

5.3.2 Economic Stimulation:

1.    Increased regional spending.

2.    Supply chain development.

3.    Local business growth.

4.    Investment opportunities.

5.    Industry diversification.

6.    Economic decentralization.

5.4 Social Outcomes.

5.4.1 Community Building:

1.    New community formation

2.    Social cohesion development

3.    Cultural integration

4.    Community facilities

5.    Recreational spaces

6.    Social support networks

5.4.2 Quality of Life Improvements:

1.    Reduced housing stress.

2.    Better living conditions.

3.    Enhanced community amenities.

4.    Improved work-life balance.

5.    Greater social stability.

6.    Increased community participation.

5.5 Environmental Considerations.

5.5.1 Sustainable Development:

1.    Planned urban development.

2.    Environmental protection measures.

3.    Green space integration.

4.    Sustainable design principles.

5.    Resource efficiency.

6.    Waste management systems.

5.5.2 Climate Resilience:

1.    Climate-adapted housing design.

2.    Energy-efficient construction.

3.    Sustainable materials use.

4.    Water conservation measures.

5.    Natural disaster resilience.

6.    Environmental impact mitigation.

5.6 National Unity.

5.6.1 Collective Achievement:

1.    National participation in scheme.

2.    Shared investment opportunity.

3.    Community engagement.

4.    Collective problem-solving.

5.    National pride.

6.    Unified purpose.

5.6.2 Social Legacy:

1.    Long-term housing solution.

2.    Community development model.

3.    National infrastructure improvement.

4.    Skills development legacy.

5.    Economic transformation.

6.    Regional revitalization.

5.7 Future Growth Potential.

5.7.1 Development Opportunities:

1.    Future expansion capacity.

2.    International airport potential.

3.    Megacity development possibilities.

4.    Business hub creation.

5.    Innovation centre development.

6.    Educational institution growth.

5.7.2 Long-term Benefits:

1.    Sustainable population growth.

2.    Economic diversification.

3.    Regional development model.

4.    Infrastructure framework.

5.    Community development template.

6.    National planning benchmark.

6.0 Conclusion and Future Outlook.

Primary Objectives Addressed:

1.    Construction of 1.2 million homes over five years.

2.    Resolution of national housing crisis.

3.    Creation of sustainable regional centres.

4.    Development of skilled workforce.

5.    Economic stimulation and growth.

6.    Community development and social cohesion.

Key Success Metrics:

1.    Housing availability increase.

2.    Market price stabilization.

3.    Regional population growth.

4.    Employment generation.

5.    Skills development outcomes.

6.    Investment returns and economic benefits.

Future Development Potential:

1.    Expansion of regional centres into megacities.

2.    International airport development.

3.    Advanced infrastructure networks.

4.    Educational institution growth.

5.    Technology hub development.

6.    Sustainable community models.

Economic Evolution:

1.    Diversified regional economies.

2.    New industry development.

3.    Innovation center establishment.

4.    International investment opportunities.

5.    Sustainable growth patterns.

6.    Enhanced national productivity.

Social Transformation:

1.    Reformed housing accessibility.

2.    Strengthened communities.

3.    Enhanced quality of life.

4.    Improved social mobility.

5.    Reduced homelessness.

6.    Greater social equity.

National Development:

1.    Infrastructure modernization.

2.    Skilled workforce creation.

3.    Regional revitalization.

4.    Economic decentralization.

5.    Sustainable development model.

6.    National unity enhancement.

Environmental Legacy:

1.    Sustainable urban development.

2.    Environmental protection measures.

3.    Climate-resilient communities.

4.    Resource efficiency models.

5.    Green space preservation.

6.    Ecological balance maintenance.

Economic Sustainability:

1.    Long-term investment returns.

2.    Sustainable employment.

3.    Economic diversification.

4.    Regional self-sufficiency.

5.    Ongoing development capacity.

6.    Market stability.

Future Adaptability:

1.    Flexible development models.

2.    Scalable infrastructure.

3.    Technology integration capacity.

4.    Population growth accommodation.

5.    Economic adaptation capability.

6.    Environmental responsiveness.

Innovation Potential:

1.    Smart city development.

2.    Technology integration.

3.    Sustainable solutions.

4.    Community evolution.

5.    Economic advancement.

6.    Social progress.

Historical Context:

1.    Unprecedented national initiative.

2.    Transformative social impact.

3.    Economic milestone.

4.    Community development benchmark.

5.    Infrastructure achievement.

6.    National unity demonstration.

Future Blueprint:

1.    Model for future development.

2.    Template for national projects.

3.    Framework for collaboration.

4.    Guide for regional growth.

5.    Standard for social housing.

6.    Pattern for economic development.

For me, the Great Australian Housing Scheme represents more than just a solution to the current housing crisis; it embodies the need for a bold and transformative vision for Australia’s future.

Through its comprehensive approach to housing, workforce development, and regional growth, the scheme could set a new standard for national development initiatives.

Its success would not only address immediate housing needs but also create a lasting legacy of sustainable communities, skilled workforce development, and economic prosperity.

The scheme’s innovative funding model, strategic implementation and focus on social outcomes would position it as a landmark initiative in Australian history.

If it was ever to get the nod, as the project progresses, its impact would constantly be shaping and re-shaping the nation’s development, providing a blueprint for future generations and demonstrating the power of collective action in addressing national challenges.

The Great Australian Housing Scheme could potentially stand as a testament to Australia’s capacity for innovation, collaboration and transformation in the face of huge social challenges.