In the wake of the devastating Black Summer bushfires in late 2019, Manu Bohn, a 30-year-old resident of the Bega Valley on New South Wales' south coast, is confronting the potential loss of his tiny home, built as a last resort after facing homelessness.

Originally from Brazil, Bohn moved to Australia in 2018 and found himself priced out of the housing market following a personal breakup.

He constructed his tiny home, situated atop a caravan, on a friend's property two years ago without securing the required council approval, although he maintains that it complies with state legislation.

Recently, Bohn received a draft order from the Bega Valley Shire Council mandating the removal or demolition of his dwelling, citing violations of NSW Environmental Planning legislation.

Failure to comply could result in legal proceedings with a fine of up to $1 million.

Bohn has expressed his concerns, stating that the prospect of such a fine is overwhelming and could lead to his homelessness.

The construction of tiny homes, which are compact mobile dwellings about the size of a shipping container, has been a growing trend in Australia over the past 15 years.

These homes range in price from approximately $20,000 to $200,000 and are often marketed as affordable housing options.

For many, including Bohn, they represent an accessible alternative to traditional home ownership.

According to the Bega Valley Shire Council, tiny homes in New South Wales are not explicitly defined, which creates complexities regarding their classification and acceptance.

The council's director of community, environment and planning stated that while secondary dwellings are permitted and often supported, a land use approval is typically required for any structure intended for habitation.

Bohn contends that his tiny home, being mobile, should not necessitate such approval, arguing it is a viable solution to the local housing crisis.

The issue of tiny homes is reflective of broader challenges in the Australian housing market.

Emeritus Professor Paul Burton, a former town planner at Griffith University, has highlighted the need for councils to adapt their policies, which often date back decades, to better address contemporary housing needs.

With many Australians facing severe affordability issues, the reliance on alternative housing solutions, including vehicles and temporary accommodation, has increased.

Bohn emphasized the importance of tiny homes as a form of affordable housing, stating that if his dwelling is demolished, he would effectively lose his home.

He advocates for policy changes that would recognize the legitimacy of tiny home ownership on private land, suggesting that local governments should consider the accommodation of tiny dwellings in light of the ongoing housing crisis.

As the debate over tiny homes continues, the Bega Valley Shire Council's decision could set important precedents regarding housing policy and the treatment of non-traditional residences in Australia.

The conversation around tiny homes, their classification, and their role as a potential solution to housing insecurity is gaining momentum amid escalating pressures within the housing sector.