Micro-villages seen as possible path to housing security

The idea was spawned 18 months ago when a group of Geelong retirees, who currently rent in a costly and uncertain market, connected with Home, a transdisciplinary hub that works with the community with the aim of well-designed, affordable and secure housing for all.

Home has four themes: homes for life; homes we can afford; homes where we know neighbours; and homes that are connected.

"It's a two-pronged project at this stage," said Associate Professor Ursula de Jong, Deakin's dean of architecture and a member of Home. "We are looking at the legal, regulatory and financial aspect of such a development, and also how it would fit into existing communities.

"There is a lot to consider, like what would the development look like and what regulations would apply? Who would invest and what returns might they get... who would hold the property titles?

"Tiny houses are becoming more popular, but in Victoria you can't build one and permanently locate it on a suburban block."

Dr de Jong said many individuals and groups would be consulted, including those who would live in a micro-village, those who would live nearby and the City of Greater Geelong.

"This is a project with real people and a real community, and we're accountable to that community.

"We're looking at a relatively small-scale development - anything from two to three homes up to a dozen. It's not like a retirement village, but it may be there are communal areas. We haven't determined the best model yet.

"But we want it to be a model that is compliant with Victorian law and that could be applied to groups beyond grey-nesters, like single parents or students, for example.

"And we want homes that will be secure, well-crafted, long-lasting, affordable and sustainable - homes that the people who live in them can be proud of."

Research into the concept is funded for the next 12-15 months, with the money coming from the Lord Mayor's Charitable Foundation and the Geelong Community Foundation.