September 9th 2024.
Recently, there has been a change in the great Australian dream, with the younger generation growing up in apartments instead of traditional houses. However, due to limited supply, it can be challenging for families to find a suitable apartment that can accommodate both parents, children, and even their furry companions. This issue has prompted new regulations to be put in place to encourage the construction of larger apartments.
For families like Dorcas Lau and her twin toddlers, Sarah and Hannah, living in an apartment has become the new norm. Instead of playing in a backyard, the girls have learned to explore the nearby parks within their inner Sydney suburb of Zetland. Lau, who grew up in Singapore, has no qualms about raising her children in an apartment. In fact, she appreciates the convenience of having eight playgrounds within walking distance and the welcoming community.
However, Lau does admit that their two-bedroom apartment can feel a little cramped at times. She wishes they could find a slightly bigger unit with one extra room, which would make a significant difference for their family. Unfortunately, larger apartments are hard to come by in the current market. According to Professor of Urban Planning Nicole Gurran from Sydney University, about 80% of the apartments built in the last five years have only one or two bedrooms. She believes that a change in approach is necessary for the future.
In most local councils in Sydney, there are regulations in place that require at least 10% of new apartments to have three or more bedrooms. However, some councils, such as the City of Liverpool, have increased this requirement to 20%. Professor Gurran believes that planners often overlook the fact that one in four apartment dwellers are families with children. Some developers have recognized this market and are now focusing on building family-friendly apartments.
For instance, Mirvac, a property development company, has seen a significant increase in the demand for three-bedroom or larger apartments in their portfolio. In a new development in Auburn, out of 37 apartments, 30 have three or more bedrooms. Real estate agent Stefan Jones from 365 Property Group confirms that families are increasingly looking for alternatives to traditional houses due to rising costs. He believes that three and four-bedroom apartments are becoming the next best option.
One family from St Leonards recently purchased a four-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in this development for $920,000. Professor Gurran acknowledges that for many families, apartments may be the only affordable option in the current market. However, she also believes that living in an apartment can be a positive experience for families. Apartments are often conveniently located near public transportation and essential services, reducing the need for a car.
Professor Gurran also points out that many global cities, such as New York, Singapore, and Tokyo, have embraced apartment living in bustling neighborhoods. She believes that cities in Australia are starting to offer similar services and amenities, making apartment living a viable option for families. In conclusion, rather than changing the great Australian dream, there is a need to provide a variety of housing options to cater to the diverse needs of families.
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