Regional Victoria is poised to play a significant role in the state government's ambitious plan to build two million houses by 2051. To meet new draft targets, councils across the region have been informed of the number of homes they need to facilitate over the next 30 years.

In Greater Bendigo, the target is to construct 37,500 new homes by 2051, increasing the number of residences from 54,900 to 92,400. Other regional targets include 12,700 homes for Macedon Ranges Shire, 4,200 for Campaspe Shire, and 4,300 for Mount Alexander Shire.

Premier Jacinta Allan announced these draft targets on June 16, emphasising the importance of building more homes in strategic locations. The final numbers will be released by the end of the year, following consultations with local councils to leverage their local knowledge and propose changes to planning rules.

"To give industry the confidence they need to get on and build, we need government and all councils working towards the same goal: more homes for Victorians - in the right places," the Premier stated.

The targets consider each region's proximity to jobs, public transport access, and environmental hazards like floods and bushfires.

Source: Statewide Hous Targets

Smaller regional councils like Loddon Shire and Buloke Shire will need 500 and 100 more homes, respectively. The outer Melbourne Shire of Mitchell, encompassing towns like Wallan and Seymour, will see a substantial increase, with a target of 68,000 new houses. Other notable targets include 46,900 new homes for Ballarat, 14,500 for Greater Shepparton, and 139,800 for Greater Geelong. Many Melbourne councils are expected to double their new housing numbers annually.

Last year, former Premier Daniel Andrews outlined a plan to build 800,000 homes within a decade in a 40-page housing statement. Recently, the City of Greater Bendigo released its draft Managed Growth Strategy, describing growth on Bendigo's outskirts as "unsustainable" and advocating for 70% of new homes to be built in established areas. Currently, half of Greater Bendigo's homes are constructed in growth suburbs like Huntly, Marong, Maiden Gully, and Strathfieldsaye.

Developers have also identified undeveloped "southern gateway" towns, such as Ravenswood, as capable of sustaining a population of 10,000 people.

As the state moves towards its housing goals, regional Victoria, particularly areas like Bendigo, will be crucial in accommodating the growing population while ensuring sustainable and strategic development. Stay tuned for more updates as we navigate this exciting period of growth and transformation.