OwnPlace by Land Development Agency
The OwnPlace program is an initiative of the ACT Government and the Land Development Agency, and was developed in response to a shortage of affordable housing across the ACT. In keeping with the ACT Government's Affordable Housing Action Plan, 15 per cent of blocks in all new LDA residential estates are set aside for affordable housing such as Ownplace which are sold to eligible purchasers for $300,000 or less.
OwnPlace aims to bring home ownership within reach for those on low and middle incomes, while ensuring that affordable homes meet a high standard in their design, materials and construction. The program contributes to the social inclusion of those on limited incomes by creating affordable homes in a range of suburbs rather than basing these in a single location. It also promotes choice and flexibility by letting purchasers choose from a range of approved housing designs developed by members of the OwnPlace builders panel.
All OwnPlace homes set a high standard for both sustainability and finish, boasting a minimum five star energy rating, landscaping tailored to the Canberra climate to minimise water use, and quality inclusion options such as floor coverings, curtains and window coverings, landscaping and ducted heating.
OwnPlace is an innovative response to the lack of affordable housing in Canberra and establishes a successful model that could be effectively used by other state and territory governments to address affordable housing demand in their own jurisdictions.
Judges Comments
OwnPlace is a benchmark affordable housing initiative developed ACT Land Development Agency which is a model for all housing agency to emulate. The scheme integrates all stakeholders including the Agency, developers, financiers, builders and purchasers to achieve 15% of all new housing within the designated ‘affordable’ criteria of $300,000 or less.
The objectives are being consistently achieved with a quality five star housing product fully integrated within the release area developments. The judges commend other state agencies to study the initiative and the benefits accruing to all the stakeholders.