Arabic version: تشجيع حكومة أستراليا الجنوبية على تحويل المتاجر الفارغة إلى مساكن

The South Australian government is pursuing a strategy of turning disused commercial spaces into housing in the regional city of Mount Gambier. This initiative comes as many small businesses along regional main streets have closed, prompting calls to transform vacant CBD properties into living spaces to alleviate housing pressures and diversify the housing market.

According to ABC News, a couple in Mount Gambier has successfully turned an old shop into an Airbnb, demonstrating the appeal of inner-city living even in regional areas. Melissa Amin and her partner bought a disused building on Commercial Street East that previously served multiple purposes, including a dance hall and a photography studio, and transformed it into a short-stay accommodation.

As part of the Limestone Coast Regional Plan, the state government aims to investigate opportunities for infill in towns across the region to provide higher-density housing options. Experts suggest that increasing housing density could better meet the demands of a changing population. Andrew Beer, Dean of the School of Management at Adelaide University, noted that many people moving to rural areas do not desire large properties, advocating for more urban-style housing options that cater to diverse needs.

While the initiative has garnered support, there are challenges, including community concerns regarding parking and changes in land use. Professor Beer highlighted the importance of demonstrating to local residents that infill developments can strengthen their communities rather than weaken them. He emphasized that historic regional CBDs, like Mount Gambier’s, were originally designed for higher density living.

Housing Minister Nick Champion stated that the push for more infill housing is driven by public feedback, reflecting a growing desire among residents to age in place and live in more accessible environments. The government aims to adopt a case-by-case scenario for each town as they move forward with this housing strategy.