Pictured: Pacific Link Housing’s mixed tenancy development in Belmont, Lake Macquarie. Completed in March 2023, ‘Fernleigh Apartments’, provides a blend of social, affordable and market-rate rentals.
Pacific Link Housing has released its first ‘State of Affordable Housing in Lake Macquarie 2025’ report, following the success of its prior reports focused on the Central Coast. The document highlights the need for more diverse and affordable housing solutions in the Lake Macquarie region which is experiencing a mismatch in housing demand and supply, leading to a significant shortfall in affordable housing availability.
As a Tier One Community Housing Provider with over 40 years of expertise across six Local Government Areas, including Lake Macquarie, Pacific Link Housing is well positioned to observe the intensification of challenges in the housing system and the impact on individuals, families, services, businesses and the community. This report underscores the organisation’s dedication to addressing the critical housing challenges identified in the region.
According to the report, over half of all dwellings in the area are forecasted to house only one or two people in the coming years, yet almost 90% of the housing stock is detached dwellings, with high amenity and higher cost, resulting in significant spare bedroom capacity. This structural misalignment places pressure on housing prices and inevitably, more households are forced into housing stress.
With around 63% of households being very low or low income, compared to the NSW average of 57%, there are currently over 11,000 households in Lake Macquarie in housing stress and the most vulnerable group are renters, 42% of which are in rental stress with this figure rising to 70% for the low-income household cohort.
Wal Edgell, Chairman of Pacific Link Housing, said:
“The disparity in Lake Macquarie’s housing market necessitates targeted action and substantial investment to develop solutions that genuinely respond to the needs of our community. It’s crucial that we address these issues with innovative approaches that provide both immediate relief and sustainable, long-term strategies.”
The report outlines five key asks for national, state and local governments, aiming to address the critical issues of housing supply and affordability. These asks are designed to prompt immediate action and long-term sustainability in housing policy and development.
The proactive focus and recent initiatives by Lake Macquarie City Council are commendable. The council’s 2021 Housing Strategy outlines a clear path towards greater diversity and accessibility in housing. Moreover, the recent Housing Forum held at Belmont on 3rd April underscores the council’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
Ian Lynch, Group CEO of Pacific Link Housing, said:
“Pacific Link Housing’s 40 year experience as a community housing provider demonstrates that success comes from working together. A coordinated response by all levels of government, the private sector and community sector is required to address the region’s housing challenges. We are committed to leveraging our expertise and partnerships to drive positive outcomes in Lake Macquarie and beyond.”
Support for the report has been strong, with contributions from key regional stakeholders including Lake Macquarie City Council, DANTIA, Awabakal Enterprises, social enterprise real estate agency Key2 Realty, Business Hunter, Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), the Property Council of Australia and the University of Newcastle. These supporters have provided valuable insights into their achievements and challenges in relation to affordable housing in the region.
While some progress has been made over the past few years, with funding beginning to flow and policy reform happening at all levels of government, far greater urgency and efficiency in the delivery of affordable rental housing is required.
The full report is available below, providing detailed analysis and strategic recommendations for tackling one of the most pressing issues facing the Lake Macquarie region.
Download 2025 State of Affordable Housing in Lake Macquarie Report
