Australia Shortlists 15 Architecture Firms to Tackle New South Wales Housing Crisis

The Australian government is looking to fix the housing crisis in the country, particularly in New South Wales, by enlisting architecture firms.

Also called as the NSW competition, The Guardian stated these firms will design houses to control the crisis in the state, as commissioned by the New South Wales government itself. Over 200 vied for the competition but only 15 architecture companies were shortlisted, six student teams included.

Specifically, the winner will be creating pattern books with pre-approved home designs. By doing this, the NSW government hopes to end red tape and longer development applications from private architecture companies.

NSW Competition Winner

According to the Greek Herald, this competition should also influence the future skyline of New South Wales by providing diversified homes in the market, attracting more buyers at different stages of their lives.

These finalists will submit their home designs until the middle of October 2024, and will be judged by 5 jury and chaired by the government architect of New South Wales, Paulo Macchia. Judging criteria will include "liveability, buildability, replicability, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and their ability to meet the needs of both industry and local communities," according to Greek Herald.

Macchia acknowledged that houses remain expensive in the state and these home designs will make them more affordable. The government also hope that they will be a home for everybody, regardless of who will buy them and their purpose.

While differently sourced, the NSW competition is aiming to achieve uniformity across New South Wales street, where possible homeowners will immediately recognize their homes as part of the community.