A pilot deliberative forum was held to provide input and recommendations for the Federal Government to combat the problem of housing affordability.
Problems and Purpose
The purpose of this deliberative forum was two-fold. First, it was to hear from citizens about ways the Federal Government can improve housing affordability. [1] And second, it was to showcase the benefits of deliberative engagement for policy and decision-making. [2]
Three questions were used to encourage thinking and responses by participants:
- What is the one big idea we need to push Canberra [federal government] to consider?
- Are you writing something everyone can stand behind?
- Does this reflect not just your own preferences and opinions, but the group consensus? [3]
Background History and Context
In response to a brief from Climate 200 to consider ways to enhance "electoral-level engagement", the newDemocracy Foundation argued that Members of Parliament can do more to meaningfully engage with citizens. This brief and response influenced the pursuit of this deliberative initiative. [4]
Organizing, Supporting, and Funding Entities
The deliberative forum was initiated by Independent Federal Member of Parliament Kylea Tink and facilitated by the newDemocracy Foundation.
Participant Recruitment and Selection
30 residents from North Sydney took part. Participants were recruited using random stratified sampling.
Methods and Tools Used
What Went On: Process, Interaction, and Participation
Participants spent a full Sunday learning from and deliberating about how to meet the challenge of affordable housing. This involved an introduction to the deliberative process and critical thinking, considering over 60 public submissions from the community and local organisations, six expert presentations from key organisations and small group deliberations where experts would also join to answer any questions. [5]
There were six guiding questions to assist participants to critically approach ideas. Participants were also made aware of their personality types and the values they prioritise for housing affordability. [6]
Influence, Outcomes, and Effects
Lessons learned from this forum will also be used to inform future deliberative initiatives, with expected deliberations to be on the topics of intergenerational equity and climate action. [7]
Participants presented a range of recommendations that related to urban planning, infrastructure, finance, tax reform, social security, immigration and foreign ownership. The main recommendation involved allocating "Commonwealth infrastructure funding...to incentivise the development of higher density housing around public transport hubs, particularly for lower income households and essential workers". [8]
Analysis and Lessons Learned
Participants appreciated the process and saw the value of engaging in deliberative forums for public decisions. [9]
The process was also encouraging for future deliberative initiatives in the area.
See Also
References
[1] Kylea Tink (n.d.). Housing Affordability. Kylea Tink. https://www.kyleatink.com.au/housing_affordability
[2] newDemocracy (n.d.) North Sydney Community Housing Forum. newDemocracy Foundation. https://www.newdemocracy.com.au/2023/12/14/north-sydney-community-housing-forum-2/
[3] Kylea Tink (n.d.) North Sydney Community Housing Forum Report. Kylea Tink. https://assets.nationbuilder.com/northsydneysindy/pages/1077/attachments/original/1702267252/231211_KT_HousingFourm_Whitepaper.pdf?1702267252
[4] newDemocracy (n.d.) North Sydney Community Housing Forum. newDemocracy Foundation. https://www.newdemocracy.com.au/2023/12/14/north-sydney-community-housing-forum-2/
[5] Kylea Tink (n.d.). Housing Affordability. Kylea Tink. https://www.kyleatink.com.au/housing_affordability
[6] Kylea Tink (n.d.) North Sydney Community Housing Forum Report. Kylea Tink. https://assets.nationbuilder.com/northsydneysindy/pages/1077/attachments/original/1702267252/231211_KT_HousingFourm_Whitepaper.pdf?1702267252
[7] Ibid.
[8] Kylea Tink (n.d.). Housing Affordability. Kylea Tink. https://www.kyleatink.com.au/housing_affordability
[9] Ibid.
