Rusch, R and Best, R (2014) Sustainability: Its adaptation and relevance in remote area housing. Construction Economics and Building, 14(1), pp. 88-104. ISSN 2204-9029
Abstract
Little consideration has been given to the context of housing in remote areas. It is important for the economic survival of many remote communities that appropriate and sustainable housing solutions are decided and implemented. This report examines housing at St Pauls, Moa Island in the Torres Strait, using site information, historical research and a review of cultural and geo-political factors to compare the current model with similar studies in selfbuild housing undertaken in the region between 1986 and 1992. It not only demonstrates tangible economic benefits, but also evaluates the environmental and social improvements which can be achieved with a re-examination of the existing model. It is important to consider the value of investing in policies and practices of sustainable development that can play a pivotal role in potential capacity building within such communities. Current land tenure policy means that families wishing to own their own homes must leave St Pauls, or build illegally. Economically they cannot establish businesses so must leave the island or remain on welfare. The result of this is an exponential increase in the cost of providing community housing and the associated increase in social and health stresses. Acknowledgement at a policy level of the links between social and emotional well-being, and 'Closing the Gap' initiatives, have the potential to offer a wide range of funding opportunities and innovative approaches to solving the housing crisis in remote Australia, if they can be implemented in an open and effective manner.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | sustainability; remote communities; housing |
| Index terms: | Australia, survival, adaptation, capacity building, remote community, housing, tenure, sustainable housing, sustainable development, land, well-being, funding, political factor |
| Subjects: | environmental science, communities and social development, political science, economic analysis, housing and residential development, real estate economics, health safety and environment, Geography, construction type, social and economic development, mental health and wellbeing, user focus |
| Topics: | Human Resources, Urban Studies, Design Practice, Governance, Sustainability, Construction Technology, Stakeholder Management, Geographical Context, Health and Safety, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 2 PC |
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