I have seen that the Building Authority on the 18th of July via a case with the Yarra Ranges has now stated that Tiny Houses do not fall under the building code, and rather are governed by the local laws! What we all knew already!

This could make a difference to how the council approaches these issues going forward and if we can continue to work with them on a permit process for these types of dwellings.

It still causes great confusion regarding the meaning of 'temporary' in the laws around caravans being used for living in, and how this concept is discussed. We know that Mt Alexander Council see that as long as the dwelling is temporary it doesn't matter how it is lived in.

Cardinia Shire is comfortable stating 'temporary' reflects the use of the dwelling, which could mean up to two years living in it based on their policies. Could we find this middle ground as an approach to helping people through the housing crisis?

I understand that the state government has made it easier for people to build 'small secondary dwellings' on private property without requiring a planning permit, but unfortunately caravans don't fall into that category for numerous reasons. Some tiny houses could find a way to meet building codes, but many do not. Which is a key part of the issue with the council. Temporary dwellings are different to secondary dwellings, a lot of people who have no other options but to live in temporary dwelling are struggling to find places to live.