While winter school holidays are traditionally quiet, we look forward to seeing those of you who are not in Europe this year enjoying some R&R on the coast.

It never escapes me the lifestyle afforded to those of us who are lucky enough to live on the coast. We can walk, surf, ride or swim in the mornings, and breathe fresh air, all of which contribute to our wellbeing.

I recently read a Domain article (see link to full article below) highlighting Victoria’s best regional areas for wellbeing. These areas offer a range of landscapes, from snow-covered mountains to ocean views.

Unsurprisingly, the Surf Coast stands out as a top area for wellbeing in Victoria, offering a high quality of life with its unique beauty and community feel. It was highlighted in the 2023 Cities and Regions Wellbeing Index by SGS Economics and Planning as one of the highest-scoring regions for wellbeing. However, this desirability comes with a high cost, with the Surf Coast having the highest median house price in regional Victoria at $1,315,000.

The high housing prices underscore the need for affordable and suitable housing to ensure the area remains accessible. Improved infrastructure and social amenities, such as schools and childcare, are also necessary to support the growing demand and maintain the Surf Coast’s attractiveness.

With the above in mind, another article (also linked below), Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan has unveiled ambitious new housing targets aiming to construct 2.5 million new homes by 2051. Geelong, Victoria’s second-largest city, is set the highest target with 139,800 new homes, increasing from its 127,300 homes in 2023. Melbourne’s CBD, outer suburbs, and Geelong will bear the bulk of this new housing according to draft council targets. The targets will be officially announced by the Premier and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny.

For Geelong, the new housing targets mean significant growth and development. This ambitious target reflects the city’s crucial role in accommodating Victoria’s expanding population. The increased housing will likely bring substantial infrastructure development, economic opportunities, and enhanced services to support the growing community.

The Age – click here.

The Guardian – click here

These two articles highlight the benefits of owning property in this region. Not only is it great for your wellbeing, but the future proposed development in Geelong will make even more services and healthcare accessible to coastal dwellers.