Lord Mayoral candidate Arron Wood has voiced strong scepticism about Nick Reece’s plan to convert ageing office buildings into apartments, labelling the proposal as more of a headline-grabber than a practical solution for Melbourne’s housing crisis.
“Converting office buildings into residential spaces sounds good on paper, but the reality is much more complex,” said Wood. “Not every building is suitable for conversion - only those with a 20-meter floor plate might stack up, and even fewer will be financially viable. This isn’t the housing solution panacea it’s being sold as.”
Wood also questioned the financial viability of the plan, especially with Town Hall’s wafer thin $100,000 surplus. “The $4 million cost is just the tip of the iceberg,” he pointed out. “How does the Lord Mayor plan to pay for these costly initiatives? And where’s the guarantee that these new dwellings will be affordable for everyday Melburnians?”
Instead of chasing risky, unproven solutions, Wood advocates for a more strategic approach. “Let’s focus on reviewing red tape to get the planning backlog moving, and look at tax reforms to ensure projects stack up.” Wood has consistently emphasised the need for fiscal responsibility and practical solutions that truly benefit Melbourne.
“Melbourne deserves leadership that listens to its residents and prioritises sustainable, proven solutions over flashy announcements,” he stated. “If elected, I will ensure that any development in our city is done with careful consideration and genuine benefits to our communities.”
Team Wood looks forward to releasing its housing and homelessness policy that will be a collaborative approach with government, housing agencies and the private sector to deliver real outcomes, not empty, headline grabbing promises.
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