If only Councils were made up of Councillors who have the prosperity of their constituency at heart rather than just an income for themselves.
So much could be achieved if they led by example so that the constituents would become more cooperative also.
The past & present situation provides sufficient evidence that both sides are at fault for things not running as efficiently as they could be.
Granny flats must become a standard to counter the immoral exploitation of renting ! Fewer families would split if such accommodation was not made so difficult or even impossible by insensitive & uncaring bureaucrats.
Where are these social engineers when they're needed to work for society instead of ruining it.

Indyvidual,

We tend to muddle through things until we get it right.

Hopefully the same will happen with Granny Flats.

When I bought this place, over 30 years ago the council policy was only one structure with a kitchen on any property, 20 acres or a thousand. The only exception was a managers house. Our problem was this had to be over 6.6 Sq Mt, & my mothers granny flat we were bringing with us from Wide Bay was only 6Sq Mt.

To satisfy council we had to graft the unit into appearing to be a wing of the existing house. To do this cost us $16,000 more than establishing it independently. Thanks council.

Today no one is paying much attention to council edicts around here. Granny flats & sheds are appearing everywhere. I am a bit sorry I went through the full costly business of building my new 15 x 8M shed by the book. When my daughter saw the view from it with the 3 roller doors open looking down to the river & off to the mountains, she wanted to move in.

Hi Hassie,

It sounds that the money you spent was well worth
every cent. And it's good that the council
restrictions have not stopped Granny Flats in
your area.

Your life-style sounds lovely.

I only hope that one day soon it will transfer into
the suburban suburbs of our major cities.

We have never had the subject need consideration but certainly the
Granny flats I have seen were quite attractive. I think they are
approved in Sydney generally.
We would not want to live with our children, although it would
probably work out if we could contribute someway, such as picking up
children after school etc. Doing the grocery shopping etc etc.
In the near future the councils will have a decision forced on them;
Granny flats or tents in the parks. or granny flats in the parks !
Now there's an idea !
There is a company that converts shipping containers into granny flats
and they look pretty good. They stack them side by side with a doorway
between, kitchens, bedrooms etc etc just as many as you can fit in.
Want an investment tip ? Buy shares in a tent company !
Might start one, call it Albos Tents !

Hi Bezza,

With an aging population and the affordability of
housing becoming more difficult for young people
Councils are going to have to look at alternatives
as you point out.

I see Granny Flats as a one solution. But perhaps
town planners and other people in the building and
construction industries can come up with even better
solutions