NSW soon to unveil its first 3D-printed social housing project

The NSW government is preparing to commence construction on its first 3D-printed social housing property. The housing project is a part of a pilot program aimed at addressing the housing shortage and homelessness across the state.

The project involves the introduction of two new 3D-printed duplexes on a vacant block in Dubbo. The aim of the trial is to reduce building cost and construction time by 50 percent, providing housing availability and affordability.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said the social housing project is the "first of its kind in the country." She added that the outcome of this first project will play a crucial role in determining whether the construction method will be adopted for more social and affordable housing projects.

"Utilising modern methods of construction like this 3D printing technology is critically important to delivering social and affordable homes sooner, especially in regional and remote areas."

In a statement issued by the NSW government, it emphasised a key advantage of using 3D printing in construction is that it produces significantly less waste. "The concrete mix uses eco-friendly, high-recycled materials to produce robust and energy-efficient homes with substantially reduced life cycle maintenance costs," the statement reads.

The homes will provide Aboriginal Housing Office tenants with a home. The project is an initiative of the NSW government, who is working in collaboration with Contour3D and Aboriginal Sustainable Homes.

Construction of the first 3D printed social housing project in New South Wales is expected to commence in late September 2024.