AJC joins the conversation at the Living Sectors Summit 2024

AJC’s Director, Brian Mariotti, shared his expertise as part of a panel discussion on planning reforms and their impact on housing supply. With over 30 years of experience, Brian reflected on the shifts in housing construction since Sydney’s peak dwelling completions in 2016 and 2017. He highlighted key reforms such as the BTR SEPP 2021, which enabled BTR developments in commercial zones, and the more recent In-Fill Affordable Housing amendments to the Housing SEPP (2023), TOD SEPP (2024), and the Low and Mid-Rise Housing (LMRH) SEPP (2024). While these policies have created opportunities, they have also brought some uncertainty and complexity to the planning framework.

Brian pointed out several challenges impacting housing supply, including site scarcity, the ongoing effects of COVID-19, labour shortages, and competition for resources with infrastructure projects. He emphasized the importance of addressing labour shortages and enhancing workforce skills to return to a normalized supply of 15,000 to 20,000 dwellings per year. Stability in the planning system is also essential, as frequent changes hinder long-term planning and execution.

“Innovation and investment in workforce skills are key to addressing the housing supply challenge,” said Brian. “At the same time, we need a stable and consistent planning system that gives the industry the confidence to plan and deliver quality housing projects. Frequent policy changes only add complexity and delay progress; hindering rather than stimulating the delivery of much-needed housing.”

“However, opportunities exist for innovative new housing types such as co-living which has been able to capitalise on the availability of older and mid-grade commercial properties and repurpose these into residential uses – breathing new life into buildings left vacant by the post pandemic change in working patterns and the ‘flight to quality’ of tenants to newer, better located office buildings.”

AJC also showcased its expertise at the event with an interactive booth, where attendees could explore one of the firm’s latest projects through immersive VR technology. The project, a 250-unit affordable housing community in Sydney’s Inner South, won the City of Sydney Design Excellence Competition. Attendees were captivated by the thoughtful spaces and unique features of the design, which integrates sustainability, community, and cultural recognition.

This innovative project exemplifies AJC’s commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities. Its multi-core design strategy establishes intimate “neighbourhoods” within the complex, bringing natural light and ventilation to often-overlooked spaces. The design also incorporates endemic plant systems, honouring the land’s traditional custodians and restoring pre-colonial wetland and sand dune ecosystems.

The Living Sectors Summit provided an invaluable opportunity for AJC to connect with industry leaders, strengthen existing relationships, and build new ones. Events like this reinforce our dedication to addressing today’s housing challenges while shaping the future of living in Australia. For more on our projects and contributions to the living sector, contact us.