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Data shows that Queensland lot sizes are shrinking.

So what does this mean for future backyard BBQs, the iconic Hills Hoist or a game of hide and seek?

We spoke to two planning experts with different views on the future of the quintessential Queensland backyard, as well as Queensland woman Leah, who has unique perspective on the “need” for a home with a big backyard.

What is the average size of new homes in Queensland?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the average site area of new houses in Australian capital cities has decreased by 22% (135 square metres) over the last 15 years. Sites decreased from 602 square metres in 2005-06 to 467 square metres in 2019-20.

What may not come as a surprise for some, is the growing trend of forgoing outdoor spaces such as front and backyards, for more room indoors. The same census data shows that although lot sizes in Brisbane decreased by 19.6% between 2012-21, housing floor size increased by 5.2% in the same period.

This means that we are doing more with less as far as house configuration and design goes.

Public spaces in lieu of private green space?

Anthony Bere-Streeter, Senior Town Planner and Researcher at ABS, says when it comes to planning for Queensland’s housing future, it’s all about ratio.

‘Back in the day the typical suburban blocks were 600m², and entry level suburban blocks were 300m²,’ Anthony says

‘If we apply the same 50% ratio to planning schemes now, it doesn’t add up.

‘These days typical suburban blocks are 300m² to 400m², if we apply the same 50% ratio, we really should be seeing a lot more 150m² and 200m² lots in planning schemes, and we simply aren’t.

‘Planning for compact lots in existing planning schemes doesn’t involve changing street patterns either, because we can put them on block ends or blended mid-block as a front-loaded product.’

Anthony adds that more compact lots would not only provide an affordable housing product suitable for entry level buyers within existing neighbourhoods but would also encourage sustainable subdivision.

But what does this mean for the beloved backyard?

According to Anthony, the days of whipping out the whipper snipper on a Saturday morning are numbered, and it’s not just good news for those who like a sleep in.

‘Personally, I think the need for the Queensland backyard died about 10 years ago,’ he says.

‘It does come back to planning, if we make use of our public spaces and shared infrastructure, we don’t have to give up the Queensland lifestyle that takes advantage of the sunshine.’

For some, the news of homes with smaller yard areas is music to the ears. When Leah moved to Queensland, she was looking for a compact housing solution without a backyard due to her disability.

‘I have no need for a backyard, purely from a maintenance point of view and the cost associated with that as well. I find if I do need to get fresh air, I just take a walk in my local park,’ Leah says.

‘Having a yard just isn’t a priority for me, it’s actually a liability.’

While Queenslanders like Leah would prefer not to maintain a backyard they can’t use, more Queenslanders are questioning why they pay to own or maintain a backyard they don’t evenuse.

Diversity the key to finding a home that fits

Dr Michael Fotheringham, Managing Director at Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute and member of Queensland’s Housing Supply Expert Panel, says the need for a backyard is not reflective of every Queenslander.

‘I've literally heard people say it's my birthright as an Australian to have a Hills Hoist in the backyard and a ride-on mower, but that notion is antiquated,’ Dr Fotheringham says.

‘There are a whole lot of costs attached to sprawling out, and it's not the only solution. In fact, quite a lot of people are interested in smaller lots and what they provide in terms of lifestyle.’

He’s not going to go as far as Anthony, though, saying that some groups of Queenslanders enjoy their backyards just as much as ever. A diverse range of home options, including different land sizes, is necessary for a thriving community.

‘But we need to actually provide those options too. I don't think that the suburban backyard is dead by any means.’

As Queensland continues to grow and change, the Queensland Government is working with councils and industry to plan for and deliver housing where it is most needed and to create liveable communities for all to enjoy. Find out more: www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/housing

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