Smarter Living with Secondary Residences in the ACT

Housing affordability continues to be a challenge across Australia, and the ACT is no exception. As demand for homes grows and property prices rise, more homeowners are turning to secondary residences—also known in the ACT as secondary dwellings—as a practical solution.

These small but mighty homes offer a clever way to make better use of your land, provide housing flexibility, and meet the evolving needs of families.

Why Consider Building a Secondary Dwelling?

Adding a secondary residence (often called a granny flat) to your property can bring real value. Here’s how:

• Keep family close while maintaining privacy and independence.
• Earn rental income to help with mortgage or living expenses.
• Offer affordable living options in your neighbourhood.
• Make the most of unused space on your block.
• Adapt to changing family situations—such as ageing parents or adult children.

Why Choose a Net Zero Habitat Prefab Home?

If you're planning a secondary home in the ACT, our Net Zero Habitat range is a great place to start. These prefabricated homes are designed for comfort, energy efficiency, and quick installation—ideal for modern living.

🌱 Explore our home designs here.

What Makes Our Homes Stand Out?

✔ Energy Smart Design

High-performance insulation, passive solar design, and quality materials help reduce heating and cooling costs.

✔ Health-Focused Living

Our homes use low-toxicity materials and promote excellent air quality for a healthier indoor space.

✔ Built Off-Site

Prefabricated construction ensures faster delivery with minimal disruption to your property.

✔ Flexible Layouts

Choose from one or two-bedroom options depending on your family’s needs or rental goals.

Understanding ACT Rules for Secondary Residences

Before building, it’s important to know the rules that apply in the ACT.

Here’s a breakdown of key requirements:

📏 Size & Layout

• A secondary residence must be fully self-contained and on the same block as your main home.
• Maximum size is 90 square metres—larger than the 60 sqm limit in Victoria.

📐 Minimum Block Size

• Your land must be at least 500 sqm to qualify for a secondary dwelling.

♿ Accessibility

• Homes must be built to meet Australian Standard AS 4299, ensuring they're adaptable for people with disabilities or reduced mobility.

📝 Development Approval

• All secondary dwellings need Development Approval from the ACT Planning Authority.
• Public notification is required, so nearby residents will be informed and, in some cases, signage may be posted.

🏠 Ownership & Subdivision

• A secondary dwelling can’t be sold separately from the main home.
• Subdivision or separate titles are not permitted under the Unit Titles Act 2001.

A Sustainable Step Forward

Choosing a Net Zero Habitat home means investing in a sustainable, future-ready secondary dwelling that keeps comfort high and energy use low.

Want to know more? Reach out today to explore our range and find the best option for your space and needs.

Helpful Info for Other States

📍Victoria – Click here for secondary dwelling regulations.

📍New South Wales – Find your local requirements here.

Note: Local council requirements, zoning, and planning overlays may affect what you can build. This guide provides general information, but we recommend checking with your local council or speaking to a qualified architect, builder, or designer before starting your project.