The council is among 24 receiving NSW Government to support housing initiatives.
Of the $4.4 million available, Murray is expected to receive $99,025 to fund the Murray River Infrastructure Strategy.
The strategy focuses on long-term planning for infrastructure and service expansion to support future population growth.
The completion of the infrastructure strategy will fast-track the completion of an additional 3890 homes throughout the Murray River Shire.
Murray River Council chief executive Stacy Williams said the funding would provide many benefits.
“The master plans will benefit both existing and future residents by identifying opportunities to improve current services, and the future infrastructure required to service new homes,” she said.
“The locations of these new homes will be identified in the newest version of our Housing Strategy to be released in early 2026, but will include areas across the council including Moama, Mathoura, Murray Downs, Barham and more.”
Although this funding relates specifically to planning for water and sewer services, the council will complete long-term planning for other infrastructure, such as roads and drainage, over time.
The funding comes at a critical time, as the state’s housing crisis continues due to a lack of affordable housing options.
To address the issue at a local level, Murray River Council is updating its Housing Strategy to find suitable locations to develop more housing.
The strategy will include assessing land availability, infrastructure capacity and advocating for investment in diverse housing options.
In relation to affordable housing, council is working with partners at all levels of government to explore sustainable solutions.
Ms Williams said access to housing was affecting communities throughout the council area differently.
“Lack of housing is a major issue across the country, further intensified by an increase in population spreading across rural and regional areas as people seek more affordable housing options,” she said.
“Different areas of the council face different challenges in regard to housing, which will be further unpacked in the review of our Housing Strategy.”
The state government funding is part of the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund.
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