Latest change in Toowoomba and Tasmania.

Let’s catch up on the latest developments with Councils across Australia and how they are approaching Tiny Homes on Wheels.

Toowoomba

After receiving a petition with 1800 signatures, Toowoomba Council votes unanimously in favour of reviewing rules to legalise living in tiny homes on wheels. Signatories want the council to introduce compassionate exemptions and permit pathways, and pause enforcement action against people who are not causing safety or nuisance issues.

This is what Councillor Dr Rebecca Vonhoff said on her Facebook Page:

“We’ve had a lot of people tell us Council’s policy that restricts tiny homes needs to change because we’re in a #housing #crisis.

We’ve also heard the message that we’re out of step with other local governments.

So this week we voted unanimously to review the local laws that stop people living in tiny homes. Some people need the laws changed so they have a roof over their heads at a lower price or so they can be near family to care for them when they’re sick. Others are choosing to live in a minimalistic way. That’s their decision so how are we letting people have the choice?

It’s a surprisingly complex policy area and we need to make sure it’s done right but bottom line is we want people to be safe.

I’ve had a lot of conversations and meetings with people about this. Some have shared very personal stories of their lives.”

Tasmania

Independent for Huon, Clare Glade-Wright of the Legislative Council is supporting the tiny home on wheels community for change.

Tiny house owners in Tasmania have started a petition demanding a legal pathway to permanently live in their homes amid conflicting council rules.

Here is a short video from Clare Glade-Wright

The need to change is only growing as more and more people experience housing stress and unaffordability issues. WHEN will our elected representatives start really listening to the community and actually use every lever they have to change the rules.