Sunshine Coast Hinterland Times

… and the first co-housing project in Queensland

SUNSHINE Coast Council has granted long time Maleny resident Peter Erdmann (pictured) a co-housing proposal for his land in Maleny adjacent to the Showgrounds.

Peter, who is 86, has been trying for many years to establish a company-owned, co-housing concept which in this case provides for 10 households and a community building where meetings and workshops can be held.

The three and half acre property looks over the Maleny Showgrounds off Centenary Drive.

Co-housing and ecovillages have become a significant part of the solution to Australia’s housing crisis, addressing the crucial issues of affordability, ecological impact and community building.

Co-housing and ecovillages are small, mainstream, residential projects facilitating an intentional way of living together. The co- housing concept allows for

individual, private homes, space and ownership, multi-use common facilities, a healthy balance between community and privacy, and elements of self-management, trust and a stronger sense of neighbourhood.