Community insight sought to ensure future housing stock meets changing needs
Published on 25 September 2025
MACKAY Regional Council has released the draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy to ensure the region is able to offer more suitable housing for current and future residents.
A review of current housing and household composition has found that while 60 per cent of households are just one to two people, only 18 per cent of current stock caters to that.
Mayor Greg Williamson said with smaller households expected to be the biggest growth segment in the next two decades, it was important to diversify housing offerings.
“What this strategy aims to do is ensure there is greater diversity of housing in well-located areas, with good access to employment, shops, community services, parklands and public transport,” Mayor Williamson said.
“It’s well documented that our community’s housing needs are changing and community feedback is critical to guide future planning and development.
“Residents are the primary users of housing and bring lived experience and knowledge that can help inform our planning decisions.”
Analysis of housing in the region showed 85 per cent of housing is detached dwellings with 90 per cent of those containing three or more bedrooms.
Since 2015, detached dwellings made up 95 per cent of all residential building approvals.
“This mismatch between what’s on offer and what is needed is significant and affects affordability, liveability and access to suitable housing,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Having a diverse range of housing, such as townhouses, units or multiple dwellings on single blocks is crucial for our aging population. It allows older people to stay in areas where they are familiar and comfortable.”
As well as looking at future needs, the draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy will also aim to understand why approved lots aren’t being developed.
Mayor Williamson said there are almost 5,000 residential lots with a form of planning approval that are yet to be developed.
“This backlog isn’t new, in fact the number of undeveloped lots has sat at more than 4,000 since 2008.
“It’s important to note that while council administers the Planning Scheme, it doesn’t build houses.
“Housing is a shared responsibility between council, developers and other stakeholders like the State Government.”
Mayor Williamson said once approved, the Mackay Regional Housing Strategy will set specific housing delivery targets for the private sector, public and social housing.
The draft has already sought input from key stakeholders in the housing and accommodation sector.
Public feedback on the draft Mackay Regional Housing Strategy is open until Thursday, October 30, 2025. Surveys are available online at connectingmackay.com.au/housing-strategy.
To request a hard copy contact council’s Community Engagement team via email at engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au or call 1300 MACKAY (622 529).