Prefab homes: A solution for housing crisis?

Prefab homes drawing new interest

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By Mina Martin

Jul 13, 2024Share

Prefab and modular housing have been touted as potential solutions to Australia’s housing crisis.

Prefabrication involves the off-site construction of parts or entire structures, which are then transported to the construction site.

This method, known as modern methods of construction or industrialised building, is gaining government interest, according to the Property Council.

See LinkedIn post here.

Government initiatives and support

In March, building ministers nationwide agreed to reduce red tape to expand prefabricated and modular construction.

“We need to pull every lever to help use advanced manufacturing to support the rollout of these homes,” said Ed Husic, minister for industry and science.

The Queensland government’s recent budget committed funding for up to 600 new modular homes.

“We’re utilising our public builder QBuild and Queensland businesses to deliver hundreds more modular homes,” said QLD Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon.

State-specific prefab housing projects

Western Australia is piloting a $1 million project using prefabricated tiny homes to boost social housing.

“Our government is utilising a number of alternative construction methods to deliver more social housing across the state,” WA Housing Minister John Carey said.

Similarly, New South Wales and Victoria are investing in modular housing trials and projects as part of broader housing initiatives.