A regional Victorian council could open up council-owned land for social housing.

Councillors at City of Greater Geelong have launched public consultation on a proposal to hand over three parcels of land worth more than $3.6 million that have been identified as suitable.

Geelong residents are experiencing high rental stress and growing demand for social and affordable housing, with 3,300 households currently living in social housing in Greater Geelong, but up to 10,000 more families in need.

That demand is expected to grow to 17,000 by 2041.

“Paying rent is a struggle for many people and it can result in financial stress, homelessness, and having to move away from family, friends, employment, education and support networks,” Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan says.

“There is a shared responsibility to identify land that’s suitable for social housing, including all levels of government and the development community.”

Councillor Sarah Mansfield says more social housing will support vulnerable community members and deliver benefits for the entire community.

“Our region is growing which means the demand for social housing is growing across our region too,” Cr Mansfield said.

“There are many people who are working and earning money but are not able to afford the extremely high costs of private rental in many areas across the region.”

The City’s 2020-2024 Social Housing Plan first identified the use of council-owned land for social housing, saying the city should  increase the supply of social housing from three to seven per cent of total households by 2031 - an estimated increase of 6,000 dwellings. 

Councillors this week agreed to put the proposal out for public comment.

Public feedback will open on February 28 for six weeks

More details are accessible here.