What is a CLT ?

CLTs use a variety of tools to make homes more affordable. That means that at least the cost of land is removed from the price of housing. Resale limits are agreed upfront, taking homes off the speculative market forever. Finding low or no cost land is crucial to the success of CLTs - this takes a whole of community effort and the help of key partners.

CLTs offer shared ownership or long-term leasehold for the people who make up a community - like local workers, single parents, older people or young families. The list goes on! In fact, with hard work and the right partners, CLTs can be set up to provide homes for anyone who can’t afford modest, secure housing in their community with their own resources.

Locals know their own needs and how to activate their community’s resources. Councils and other local organisations work together with residents to create benefit for the whole community. CLT’s are characterised by active voting memberships that include, but are not limited to residents of the CLT’s homes.

CLTs are not for profit organisations that hold title to deliver permanently affordable housing and community benefit now and into the future.

CLTs protect land for community benefit into the future. Environmentally responsible, sustainable practices are critical as we continue to live with the impacts of the climate emergency. CLT land is held for housing and other activities which contribute to community wellbeing.

In some parts of Australia, CLTs are being developed by First Nation peoples as a culturally appropriate form of ownership. Whole of community CLTs understand that First Nation peoples are the traditional owners and custodians of land across Australia. CLTs work closely with First Nation peoples to Care for Country and find ways to collaborate to improve their housing outcomes, if that is the local First Nation community’s wish.