MEDIA RELEASE

SURVEY REVEALS THE WORSENING HOUSING CRISIS IN LYNE

A recent survey of Lyne residents has revealed the extent of the region’s housing crisis, prompting Independent candidate Jeremy Miller to call for urgent action.

"The results of our survey highlight the urgent need for the full range of housing options, including affordable and social housing," Mr. Miller said. "People need practical housing options that allow them to live and work in the region."

The survey confirms that essential workers in aged care, nursing, emergency service personnel, and other service providers—are struggling to secure housing in towns such as Taree, Forster, Gloucester, and Wauchope. Many have had to decline job opportunities simply because they cannot find a place to live. Renting is not a realistic option, with 75% of survey respondents reporting difficulties in securing a rental property.

Mr. Miller also pointed to the growing problem for locals trying to buy a home. "People who have grown up here, working on an average income, are now locked out of the market due to rising property prices. We must ensure that housing remains accessible for all."

The survey further revealed that 50% of respondents struggling with housing identified high costs and limited availability as the main challenges. Coastal communities are seeing homes sitting vacant for much of the year due to short-term rentals, while inland communities lack the tradies to build the houses they so desperately need.

"Housing policy needs to reflect the diverse needs of our region," Mr. Miller said. "It is critical that we engage with local communities to ensure development is sustainable and beneficial for all.  Both major parties have had the chance to fix this while they've been in government and they've failed.  We can't afford to wait any longer."

As an Independent, Mr. Miller is committed to prioritising the needs of Lyne’s residents. He is listening—whether through surveys, pub conversations, or market chats—and has developed a set of policy proposals to address the crisis, including:

• Unlocking investment in regional housing through competitive grants for local councils, developers, and social housing providers.

• Free TAFE and wage subsidies for apprenticeships in construction and essential trades to build a skilled workforce.

• Essential Worker Housing Programs, expanding the shared equity scheme to attract and retain skilled workers in regional areas.

• Investment in infrastructure and utilities in new housing precincts to encourage private sector development.

"Lyne needs real solutions, not more political hand-wringing," Mr. Miller said. "As an Independent MP, I will fight for policies that put our communities first."

Jeremy Miller is the Community Independent for Lyne.  He was chosen by community members across the Lyne electorate in response to a twelve month listening campaign aimed at prioritising the local needs of the Lyne electorate.