In literal tears thank you so much for signing! 😭 It means the world to us that people want to help us find alternative housing solutions during this crisis.

If you are a Yarra Ranges resident please consider emailing your local member about this petition.

It will be incredibly supportive for us during the discussion at next month’s meeting, knowing that the councillors have been contacted by their constituents on this issue 🙏🏼

Copy the below template to send your relevant councillor for your local area [can be found on the website linked here] in the Yarra Ranges, feel free to edit how you would like!

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Dear Cr X,

I request that the Yarra Ranges stop dispensing Building Orders against at-risk residents living peacefully in their THOWs/Caravans. As per our local laws which allow this.

I want the Yarra Ranges council to create its own Tiny House on wheels (THOWs)/Caravan living policy. Leading the way on finding solutions to the housing and cost of living crisis for its residents.

This policy will protect its residences from housing insecurity and risk of homelessness, the council’s current approach and interpretation of the building codes does not allow for flexible housing solutions.

There are many families that are put at risk of losing a roof over their head with the council’s requirement that all caravans have building permits to be lived in on an ongoing basis, which is a standard they cannot meet as vehicles. We ask that all building order decisions on existing THOWs be paused until more up to date and relevant procedures can be created in partnership with at-risk families.

This is a critical part of our council area's unique needs and this policy is critical to my vote.