Aerial photo of city centre of Geelong in Victoria, Australia
In a recent article in the Geelong Advertiser, ACHA Chair and Managing Director of Common Equity Housing Limited (CEHL), Liz Thomas, explained why co-operative housing is key to solving Geelong’s housing crisis.
Right now, Geelong and Victoria, like the rest of Australia, face a critical challenge in creating enough affordable, secure, and stable homes for people to thrive. Liz explained that co-operative housing must be part of the solution.
Co-ops offer more than just a roof overhead. They empower residents with a sense of belonging, community connection, and long-term stability. With rents typically capped at 25% of household income and members actively involved in managing their homes, co-ops deliver real benefits for wellbeing, resilience, and quality of life.
Across Greater Geelong and Colac, 13 co-ops supported by Common Equity Housing Limited already provide over 180 homes. But demand is growing. CEHL has 140 shovel-ready homes that could be delivered today with the right policy support, planning approvals, and funding.
As Liz stated:
“Co-operative housing is a proven, people-first solution to the housing crisis. It delivers not just homes but stable, resilient communities.”
That’s why ACHA is calling for $250 million of federal funding through the Housing Australia Future Fund over three years to build 500 new homes annually and create 25 new co-ops across Australia, including in Geelong.
It’s time to scale up what works. Let’s give more Australians the chance to build their future in a home they can truly call their own.