What governments need to do
A high priority must be placed on addressing this national housing backlog in urban, rural and remote populations.
Because adequate and appropriate housing is fundamental for the development of stable, secure and socially cohesive indigenous communities, which can in turn foster the economic development and prosperity needed for sustainable communities, the Institute calls on the Government departments and agencies involved urgently to do the following:
- Build more houses The shortage in appropriate housing, particularly for Indigenous communities in remote areas, must be addressed. Housing shortages lead to overcrowding which in turn exacerbates problems caused by inadequate health hardware and a lack of regular maintenance. Governments must undertake to provide the funds necessary to clear the backlog.
- Design better houses New housing for Indigenous communities is to be appropriately designed for the traditional and cultural practices of the occupants and their communities and for particular geographical and climatic conditions. Housing for Indigenous communities must be designed and built to ensure ease of maintenance, low running costs for residents and longevity.
- Keep houses working High quality initial design and construction needs to be combined with regular programmed maintenance if the quality of housing for Indigenous communities is to improve. Regular maintenance for existing housing has also been shown to be effective in improving the way houses function. Adequate funding is to be provided for such maintenance.
- Employ local people and organisations It is vital to build and maintain the capacity of Indigenous communities to manage their own housing and essential infrastructure. Many Indigenous organisations have demonstrated a capacity to deliver and maintain housing services through constantly changing policy regimes. These Indigenous organisations can be even more effective if provided with adequate government support.