This research report highlights the urgent planning needs to support Ballarat’s long-term housing growth, affordability and economic competitiveness.
Read the full Ballarat Residential Supply and Demand Assessment here.
Snapshot
Ballarat is Victoria’s second-largest regional city and a key player in meeting the state’s housing targets, with a projected need for 46,900 new dwellings by 2051. However, despite strong population growth and a robust construction sector, the city remains heavily reliant on detached dwellings, which account for over 91% of new approvals since 2018. Infill development in established areas has been limited, averaging just 6.8% of annual approvals, well below the 60% target set by the State Government’s Plan for Victoria.
The Ballarat Residential Supply and Demand Assessment, prepared by Ethos Urban for UDIA Victoria, warns that greenfield land in Ballarat West and the Northern Growth Area will be exhausted by 2029 under current demand. Without urgent planning for future growth areas, Ballarat risks a housing shortfall that could drive up prices, slow population growth, and undermine economic competitiveness. The report calls for immediate action to unlock new land and ensure a steady pipeline of supply to meet the city’s long-term housing needs
