Victoria’s dairy regions are facing growing challenges in accessing housing, affecting workforce attraction and retention and threatening the long-term sustainability of the state’s $3 billion dairy industry.

To address this critical issue, the Gardiner Foundation is launching an Expression of Interest process to identify innovative housing solutions for Victoria’s dairy regions.

The foundation is seeking partnerships with developers, investors and government bodies to create sustainable and affordable housing options for dairy communities.

Gardiner Foundation general manager Jenny Wilson said access to housing was a major barrier to attracting and retaining a skilled workforce in Victoria’s dairy regions.

“Across the dairy and broader agricultural sector, workers are struggling to find affordable accommodation, putting pressure on businesses and regional economies,” Ms Wilson said.

“By working together on practical, long-term housing solutions, we can help ensure the sustainability of our dairy industry and the strength of regional communities.”

The foundation said key challenges included severe housing shortages (limited availability in both rental and ownership markets); rising rental costs (pushing workers out of affordable accommodation); and barriers to home ownership (rapid price increases make it unattainable for many).

The shortage of affordable accommodation is placing pressure on dairy businesses, processing companies and the broader service sector, the foundation said.

Many businesses are shouldering the financial burden of providing housing for workers, further limiting industry growth.

George Housakos from Cushman & Wakefield, who has been appointed to conduct the EOI process for Gardiner Foundation, said affordable housing was essential for community sustainability.

“Gardiner Foundation’s initiative to support innovative housing solutions in Victoria's dairy regions will not only encourage much-needed housing, but aims to stimulate local economies and foster community development,” Mr Housakos said.

“We anticipate strong interest from different stakeholders in the housing system, all eager to address the housing shortage in Victoria’s dairy regions.

“This collaborative effort will be crucial in delivering sustainable and innovative housing solutions that benefit the entire community.”

The EOI process is now open to stakeholders with ideas to deliver sustainable housing solutions in Victoria’s dairy regions.

The first market briefing will be on April 28 and the EOI will be released to the market on April 30. All queries can be directed to: housing@gardinerfoundation.com.au

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Tuesday, 10th June 2025

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