Creating Luxury Lifestyles
Alphaline Tiny Homes is a family owned & operated manufacture of luxury Tiny Homes and Cabins with over 30 years experience in the construction industry. All of our homes are designed with luxury and liveability in mind & will be customised to suit your needs, wishes & location. Our Homes are suitable for singles, couples and even families with children. They can also be used as granny flats, commercial guest accommodation or even as an affordable alternative to an extension on your existing home. We have plenty of optional upgrades available to take your project to the next level.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us on 1300 584 663 | www.alphalinetinyhomes.com.au
Welcome to the 2025 Tiny Home Expo Welcome
As we celebrate the fourth year of the Tiny Home Expo in 2025, it's a time to reflect on the journey that began in Brisbane in 2021. One of the most rewarding aspects of organizing these events has been witnessing the transformative impact tiny homes have had on the lives of so many. There's a remarkable moment, often described by new tiny home owners, when they move in and realize they finally have a home of their own—albeit a smaller one. That moment of relief is a testament to the freedom and empowerment that comes with the tiny house lifestyle. In the latter part of 2024 we’ve focused on advocating for more accessible and straightforward regulations for tiny homes, recognizing them as a key part of the solution to Australia's ongoing housing crisis.
With housing affordability continuing to worsen, tiny homes offer a feasible alternative, especially for those struggling in high-demand areas.
As a single mother of two living on the Sunshine Coast, one of the most strained housing markets in Australia, I’ve personally felt the pressure. I still remember the anxiety I experienced in 2012, when I measured my Toyota Camry in preparation for the possibility of living in it with my two young children. Despite this hardship, the lack of support from government safety nets was even more troubling. Having moved through 19 different homes over the years—I’ve found looking towards a tiny house is a real, and attainable solution for the latter years of my life. What many fail to see, however, is the
generational impact. My children, now young adults, face the grim reality of homeownership being out of their reach. The dream of owning property feels increasingly unattainable for them, just as it has for so many Australians. Tiny homes offer an opportunity for young people to build a foundation, even if it’s not the traditional path.
While the government continually touts the need for more housing, often with vague references to ‘affordable housing,’ it is surprising that tiny homes aren’t receiving more support. Instead, red tape and outdated building codes continue to hinder progress, preventing many from finding solutions to their housing challenges. These unneeded barriers, such as the trivial issue of a 1.2m space in front of a toilet in a tiny home, contribute to people being forced to live in temporary or unsafe conditions. It is not the quality or
safety of these homes that’s in question—it’s the arbitrary standards that make it difficult for tiny homes to meet building codes.
Through 2025, many individuals continue to live in their tiny homes ‘under the radar,’ bypassing local councils in the absence of clearer regulations. If you believe this should change, we urge you to take action— whether by writing to your local representatives, joining advocacy groups, or supporting the Australian Tiny House Association. Together, we can help ensure a more straightforward path for those who choose the tiny home lifestyle. We encourage you to engage with the experts at our Speaker Hall throughout the Expo. Many of them have firsthand experience with people living successfully in tiny homes. Despite the negativity often found on social media—focused on the rare cases where things haven’t gone smoothly—tens of thousands of tiny homeowners are living peacefully and grateful for their decision.
It is our hope that this Expo provides you with valuable insights into the possibilities of tiny homes: what can be achieved, who can help, and how you can make it happen. Ultimately, this is the very purpose of the Tiny Home Expo—to answer your questions and help pave the way for a more sustainable, affordable future.
Phae - Tiny Home Expo Organiser
@konpak_homes konpak.com.au
We’re not trying to be the biggest. We’re focused on being the most trusted/ most thoughtful/ and most human builder in the industry. We work best with people who value good design/ honest communication/ and living with intention — not just owning a tiny home/ but creating a better lifestyle.
If that sounds like you/ we’d love to help.
Everything you ever wanted to know about living in a tiny home...
USE THIS QR CODE FOR TIMES
The speaker hall has people that live and breathe tiny houses and know the industry and marketplace, and in many instances have had first hand experience with councils and government and how people are overcoming hurdles. We encourage everyone to physically come and hear REAL stories, and direct information, as opposed to social media which is full of confusing and vague negativity.
MC - KYLIE BICKLE
With a built environment degree, Kylie embarked on a career designing furniture, objects and spaces. Redirecting towards building sustainability (Living Futures Institute/Green Star) she decided to make public a personal project designed to work within current planning and regulatory frameworks (Brisbane City Council) … creating the change she wanted to see in her own backyard.In collaboration with ESC Consulting, Kylie wrote Reimagining the Backyard – A Tiny House on Wheels in the Suburbs - a case study that demonstrates the transformation of a typical suburban block into a productive, multi-generational shared resource. Since 2021, this document has been used in advocacy across the country because it shows just how easy, affordable, legal and safe siting a THOW can be!
FINANCE
Mortgages, loans and credit are complex subjects. Jamie Mitchell would be considered both a tiny house expert and finance expert. Discover the best way to be finance-ready and ask your own questions.
BUILDING, DESIGN & CRAFT
With Adam Hickman. Adam has learned from traditional and sustainable building methods, with a passion for building as a craftmanship. Here he talks about building small spaces, and what materials and methods can make a tiny very special.
SUSTAINABILITY
With Kylie Bickle. Kylie’s passion is sustainable materials in building practice and here you will find a place to open conversation on how we can, and should, be using more sustainable products that are safe and will last our lifetimes. An interesting and knowledgeable perspective.
COUNCIL RULES & THE ATHA
President of the Australian Tiny House Association, Rochelle Ryan, is backed by volunteers and experts from their VIC panel, discussing how the association came about, and how they need your help to keep fighting the good fight. This talk is joined by organiser Phae Barrett, for some understanding on council rules and regs.
SITE PLAN 101
Possibly the most insightful masterclass going over aspects of siting, preparing and setting up your tiny house. Where on the property you should place a house, your waste, your egress
and many other considerations, there would be hundreds of people who wished they came to this talk before receiving their house! With Chris Vella (who has set up over 100 tiny houses!)
LAND / PARKING
Where will I put one? Not only is this talk insightful on how you can rent land to put your tiny… or if you have land, rent it to a tiny house owner.. but it is also an inspirational talk from Briony Jenkinson who details how she went from broke, miserable and in a cold caravan, to living the dream in her beachside location, in a very luxurious tiny.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Our Q + A panel is here to help you with questions with any of the above subjects, and more. Feel free to shoot up your hand - it often opens great conversations and you soon realise the expo is surrounded by like-minded people who will do all they can to help.
(** The views and opinions expressed by Presenters and Exhibitors at the Expo are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Australian Tiny Home Expo. All visitors are encouraged to draw their own opinions and conclusions based upon the information presented to them.)
The Tiny Home movement in Australia is huge and growing by the day as more and more Australians live tiny. The Australian Tiny House Association (ATHA) was created to bring like minded people together and support and advocate for tiny home living. We work with individuals, communities, Local Sate and Federal bodies to inform and educate about the importance of this way of life to many Australians.
"If you’re anything like most people we meet, you want to buy a Tiny House but you’re putting it off because you’re worried you’ll have nowhere to put it. That’s exactly why we created ParkMyTinyHouse, a land matching service connecting property owners with people like you who want to live in a Tiny House but need to live on rented land.
We’ve had great success over 3 years of providing this service, and have helped hundreds of people just like you find their dream Tiny House parking spots! With 70+ listings Australia-wide at any time and new ones added weekly, there’s a spot for almost everyone.
OR are you considering buying a Tiny House to AirBnb? Let someone else bring their own Tiny and rent them the empty space for similar income instead! Scan the QR to find out how it all works."
Briony Jenkinson ParkMyTinyHouse
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With more than 15 years’ experience in the construction industry, CozyCo are bringing high quality builds utilising the best, locally sourced materials to the Tiny Home world. With extensive research and careful product selection, we bring you not only functional living spaces with our one-bedroom apartment style homes; we ensure your home is built with in the rules and regulations of a home on wheels! Our homes have been developed in conjunction with a building designer, with local suppliers in mind, allowing you to select your preferred colour palette and finishes with ease, ensuring you are buying into your perfect home! With modern finishes, high quality fixtures, and extensive inclusions; once you receive your CozyCo Tiny Home, you will feel right at home!
We can’t wait to hear from you! info@cozyco.au 0400879506 - Chris @cozycotinyhomes
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Discover DECO’s range of Australian-made solid aluminium building products and systems, all easy to install and effortless to maintain. All products come pre-finished in our exclusive range of Super Durable™ powder coat finishes, including the beautiful DecoWood® timber-look finish.. With many years of experience in the building industry and aluminium finishing, Ross Doonansaw potential in groundbreaking new powder coating sublimation technology that had
been developed in Italy. After travelling to Italy to learn more about these processes, Ross made the bold decision to start his own aluminium photo imaging business. Ross's philosophy was simpleto deliver a unique high quality, aesthetically pleasing durable finish for aluminium building products, whilst also delivering exceptional standards of quality and service to customers.
admin@deco.net.au 02 9603 1888
Tinyhomecentral.au
WHAT ARE TINY HOME CENTRAL ADVANTAGES?
use as primary or secondary dwelling built within National Construction Code get council approval easy customise design to your needs 100% off-grid capabilities standard default - 3.5m wide, can be wider
delivered site ready fully insulated - floor, walls, ceiling engineered with a sturdy core steel frame kitchen appliances included + aircon customisable to suit NDIS criteria full support for the council approval process
Haven is more than just a name—it’s a place of refuge and comfort. Our glass mirrored iconic pods are built around providing a transformative experience, offering an escape from the everyday. We are committed to well-being, and each unit is designed with care, using non-toxic materials that reflect the pure, rejuvenating essence of nature.
Contact: E: team@havenpod.com.au
Phone: 1300 230 456
Website: www.havenpods.com.au
Quality Tiny Homes
Come see us at our stand and take advantage of a limited-time expo discount!
Inclusions:
Our tri-axle tiny home is built on a fully roadworthy trailer engineered for stability, strength, and safe transport across all standard road conditions. Inside, you’ll find everything you need for modern, comfortable living:
Additional Features:
Energy-efficient hot water system
Ceiling fan and LED downlights
Double-glazed windows and doors for insulation
The Tiny Home on Wheels offers the perfect blend of compact living and modern comfort. This fully equipped, mobile home includes a spacious bedroom, functional kitchen, and stylish bathroom, making it ideal for those seeking flexibility without compromising on quality. Designed with energyefficient features like double-glazed doors and a Colorbond roof, it’s the perfect solution for those wanting to live sustainably and move freely.
Enjoy comfort, freedom, and mobility in a home designed for smarter living. Perfect as a sustainable option, a cosy retreat, or a compact home that moves with you.
Durable Colorbond steel roofing for long-lasting protection Why a Tiny Home on Wheels?
Noark Australia, a pioneer in renewable energy, provides cutting-edge solutions tailored for tiny homes. Our products are designed to empower end users by providing reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy solutions. Discover the perfect balance of quality, performance, and eco-friendliness with NOark, making your energy needs effortless and effective. Elevate your energy experience with NOark, where cutting-edge technology meets user-friendly design for a seamless and sustainable lifestyle.
Website: www.noark.au
Email: info@noark.au
Ph: +61 1300 771 739
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Discover sustainable living in Australia with Tiny Mobile’s locally made modular homes and tiny houses. Our passionate and innovative team is committed to quality and eco-friendly solutions, making us pioneers in the industry. With customizable homes and a focus on sustainability, we’re tackling global climate challenges one home at a time. Browse our selection of Australia tiny homes and modular buildings and start your journey towards sustainable living
ARE TINY HOMES ILLEGAL?
No. "Tiny homes" are not illegal. They may be subject to your local council rules and regulations.
CAN I BUY LAND AND STICK A TINY HOUSE ON IT?
Vacant land means you will be trying to place your tiny house as a "Primary Dwelling", which entails the same/very similar application process through council as a normal size house. Think about Emergency Services (where do they come to?). Postal service. Town infrastructure.. if 100 families move in to a small community, are there appropriate schools/hospitals and other services available. Most importantly, Environmental Impact. Are you prepared for grey water waste, toilet waste? It can't just be buried into the land... even if it is YOUR land, because it can affect neighbouring land, wildlife etc. These are the aspects council will take most interest in. If the land has a primary dwelling already - then, as a SECONDARY dwelling, tiny houses have a much easier path.
DO COUNCILS ALLOW TINY HOUSES - DO I NEED A PERMIT?
Answer is No and No. Because most council's do not recognise a "Tiny House", hence why people use the term Caravan or Mobile/moveable dwelling. AND.... every single council is different. There are few councils that require a ‘tiny house permit’ other than the Sunshine’s Coasts ‘Healthy Places – temporary accommodation application’. There are 537 councils in Australia. Just THREE of these properly recognise a tiny house. Just 3!! After 8 years of solid advocacy this is dismal. Others may 'refer' to tiny
houses - however a recent conversation with a council uncovered that they were meaning 60sqm+ tiny houses? This highlights why - when you call council and ask about a Tiny House - their vision of a Tiny House and yours will likely be exceptionally different! Thus, the initial information they are giving for "Tiny Houses" is not accurate, nor meets your needs. This is a problem when making first enquiries with council.
CAN I BUY A 3-4-5 BED TINY HOUSE?
If you need several bedrooms, you may be looking for a "Modular - or a house not on wheels). We have seen 3 bedroom configurationsalthough we have not seen 4/5 - yet. They are "Tiny Houses"really small - AND they must weigh less than 4.5tonne if they are to be towed anywhere as this is the weight limit allowed on the roads. So as soon as you go bigger and bigger, you quickly reach the weight limit. A better option is to consider 2 small tiny houses, or look for a separate shower/toilet/utility that can be placed adjacent to the tiny house - add a wheelie room or two and a patio in between. A clever building design can achieve this. Modular houses can also achieve more bedrooms.
ARE THERE TINY HOUSE VILLAGES?
There is not a day that we do not receive a phone call from a passionate person asking why council do not get land and put lots of houses on it to ease the housing despair some people are going through. There is a huge attachment between tiny homes and homelessness. In essence, this sounds like an easy fix - and an entire BOOK needs to be
Regular questions that come to our office, and are seen on various Tiny house Community Forums, and also asked in our Speaker Hall...
written on this. In short, few councils have shown interest in tiny house villages as a homelessness fix. And the handful of communities who have achieved this/or tried to achieve this, have done so with both a lot of legal infrastructure and council liaison, which comes with some high administrational costs... which goes against the concept of "affordable housing".
A recent phone call with a housing representative, suggested buying a Caravan Park is the only way to set up a tiny home village.... it is unclear if such a caravan park would be able to house long term residents or just holiday maker style accommodation. Which again, goes against the grain of what is trying to be achieved. Behind the scenes there are village set-ups being set up that we are keeping an eye on - some work, some do not. There are also some councilbacked "tiny-communities" for charities in the form of Nestd, YouTurn, and similar. It is a very complex issue, and the reasons would be in the answer on this page to the questionCan I Buy Land and Stick a Tiny House On It?
CAN I TRAVEL AROUND AUSTRALIA IN MY TINY HOUSE?
Not recommended at all. Caravans are built for this - Tiny Houses are not. They’re built to be moved less often. There is a massive difference in size and height, and in general, they are not built to be taken on the road perpetually, albeit there are a couple of "Touring Tiny” designs, often called Micro-houses. These types of homes have absolute minimal weight and are built for purpose. Check out Polka-dot villages who have a Tour with a tiny house designed to be nomadic. And Havenwood Tiny
Houses also have a touring version - (there are also 'pods', gypsy style vans, which are suited to a more nomadic use).
ON WHEELS / OFF WHEELS?
Tiny houses can be on wheels or on skids. Either way they are a moveable/ portable/ temporary dwelling.
CAN TINY HOUSE BE INSURED?
Yes. Some people report issues in finding insurance for living full term in a Tiny house and others seem to breeze through and get insurance in place without any problems. You need to decide if you are insuring your house as a “house" - or as a Caravan. When insuring as a ‘house’ it can be complicated…. Because it is is actually not a house! Try CIL - NRMA . Also, Benjamin and Benjamin, an insurance company that recognise tiny houses, and have specific insurance for them.
CAN I GET A TINY HOUSE MORTGAGE?
No. Not in the traditional sense of a 25+years, low interest, Insured mortgage. HOWEVER, there are movers and shakers in the industry changing all that - keep an eye on Great Escape Finance as they plough through this minefield of tiny finance and keep coming up with better packages for people. Right now you can finance a tiny house along similar lines of a personal loan, and Great Escape are experts on this subject.
CAN
I AIRBNB A TINY HOUSE / FARM STAY HOST?
Actually, under current rules, it is easier to AirBNB/short stay a tiny house than live in one on your own property - which is not cool for people under
Home Sweet Home “ ”
housing pressure, and is a strong reason why councils should be evening up the playing field. If you have land and wish to place a tiny house on your land for AirBNB, you can buy a tiny house -set it up at your cost and advertise your 'holiday accommodation". ALSO, consider if you own land, that you could host people who BRING THEIR OWN tiny house, and just would like to rent a portion of your land only. No upfront costs to the landowner, and an easy, quick return @ $100$200 per week. Take a look at Parkmytinyhouse.com.au
ARE ALL TINY HOUSES SAFE AND BUILT TO CODE?
No they are not. There are no regulations. This CAN open the industry to cowboys and
you should be very astute in researching your tiny house builder. It is noticed on buy and sell groups/facebook and gumtree that there are hundreds of "tiny houses for sale". An astute builder will have a Website and social media pages with contact details - will be a member of the ATHA - will be either at an expo, or have a showroom you can visit and be open in their dealings with you. Many have builder licences, some can offer BAL certifications and other legitimate paperwork regarding work completed on your house. They will have a professional contract of sale (an invoice/receipt is not a contract).
Please be aware that a tiny house builder is not obligated to inspect your land and
prepare your land. They are providing a mobile dwelling. If you order one and want it placed halfway up a mountain, or even in the middle of a field - placing it there and getting set up safely (pinning down for high winds) is actually YOUR job. Some builders may offer this service, IF it is in their contract. Gas fittings, fire safety, electrical, plumbing, and all aspects of your home should be scrutinised before you order - performed by a qualified tradesperson. And, as with anything, you often get what you pay for. Be realistic. Is a cheap, imported prefabrication going to be a robust, council compliant Home? If you buy cheap, expect to do some 'extras' to bring it up to standard at the very least.
OFF GRID / ON GRID?
Either. The Pro's of an off grid is the re-sale market is bigger. The house can change to ANY location, not just on grid locations. Investing up-front on off grid electricity, water and toilets, is a long term saving and fits well with the notion that tiny houses are eco friendly, sustainable and save you money.
WHERE TO FIND MORE INFO
Check the Resources page in this magazine - they are invaluable for getting great information on everything “Tiny"
RESOURCES
Good places to do further research
Websites
JOIN: The Tiny House Association www.tinyhouse.org.au
DISCOVER: The Tiny House Industry www.tinyhouseindustry.com.au
FINANCE: www.gefinance.com.au
PODCASTS: www.tinyhouseconversations.com
FIND LAND: www.parkmytinyhouse.com.au
WASTEWATER: www.waterwally.com.au
EXPOS: www.tinyhomesexpo.com.au
JOIN: Facebook groups in Australia - there is a list on this page
BEWARE: There is so much mis-information and naysaying flying around - remember 10’s of thousands are happily living in their tiny houses - how are they doing it, if it is “so impossible”? Keep positive!
Info
ADVOCATE/COUNCILS/LEGAL LINKS
We have uploaded to the website Studies, Court Cases, Rulings, laws, and letters from Ministers.
RULING: A tiny house on wheels is a caravan
RULING: Council ordered to vacate a ‘show cause’ on a tiny house.
APPEAL: Couple Wins right to have a tiny house in backyard
STUDY: Reimagining the Backyard
LEGAL: Lists of precedent cases that can help
LETTERS: minister letters passing the buck to councils and their lack of understanding of the plight of a tiny house owner
COUNCILS: Links to councils who have tiny house policies (if your council does not have one - show them how it can be implemented)
PETITIONS: you can sign and help
SUBMISSIONS: examples of submissions for advocacy www.tinyhomesexpo.com.au/legal-links
As the Tiny Home Industry grows, there are a few reports of SCAMS and dodgy builders.
In general, there are few ‘cowboy’ builders in the Tiny Home arena. We would start identifying them by those that stick their business cards and leaflets in the car park of an event (I wonder if there is a reason they were not allowed to exhibit?)
Meeting a builder inside an expo and assessing the workmanship is a huge advantage, so keep to reputable builders who attend events and are part of the Tiny House
FACEbOOK groups
Australian Tiny Houses
52,000+ members
Tiny Homes Australia
38,000+ members
Tiny Houses brisbane & QLD
23,000+ members
Land and Tiny Houses to rent or buy in Australia
54,000+ members
Off the grid Australia
286,000+ members
Small and Tiny Houses Australia
18,000+ members
Tiny Houses - Adelaide & SA
9,000+ members
Tiny Houses buy and Sell Australia
86,000+ members
Acreage, rural properties for sale, swap & wanted
150,000+ members
Container Homes buy & Sell Australia
13,000+ members
(Not to be confused with “Container Homes Australia" which is not an Australian Group)
Tiny Houses Tasmania 4,000+ members
community and industry in general. Check if they are member of the ATHA. Ask about them on forums (list provided on this page).
LOOK OUT!
Pictures online that are computer renders and not real pics. Builders who NO ONE has heard of, but 10’s of thousands of followers on socials (why do they need to buy followers?) No phone or email - just “contact form” style online communication. Get the name of the COMPANY and do a check.
If you ask a question on a forum and are PM’d by a builder looking like the answer to your dreams… they could actually be your nightmare. No builder needs to PM you just because you asked an innocent question on a tiny house forum.
ADvERTISEMENTS - TOO gOOD TO bE TRUE… and this, Sadly, is how they get everyone. My Kit Homes got $1.4 million as people believed they were getting a tiny
house kit for just $15k
Off Grid Experts and Aussie Cabins got people to send $18k for a fully kitted out 40ft, 2 bed container home - and ran off with all the money!
The same container is here at the expo for $89k The commonality here is: The Price is Just Not Right.
CHEAP, NASTY, NON-COMPLIANT
- there are 100’s of entrepreneurs ordering on AliBaba, and importing under-par products from overseas to sell to you with a nice-looking website. Be aware that “Built to Australian Standards” from overseas means utterly nothing at all. Ask if Built to CODE (NCC), or if the building can be Certified as 1A, and the “Australian Standards” go out the window. Some people have gone through hell and spent tens of thousands trying to repair imported junk which is nothing more than ‘land-fill’.
In the beginning, Tiny Houses were a MOVEMENT… a new way of life. Alternative. Sustainable. Under the radar. Off the grid. At one with nature. A peaceful alternative to traditional housing, and affordable. A no-mortgage solution. In recent years, the popularity of tiny houses has transformed from a niche movement into a mainstream phenomenon, prompting significant interactions with local councils. Originally seen as alternative, sustainable living options—categorized as caravans— tiny houses offered a lifestyle that was off the grid and immersed in nature. In this context, few people considered the need for council permission to purchase or reside in a tiny house. After all, if you were to buy a caravan from a dealer, would you ask if it came with council permission for how you intended to use it? However, as tiny houses gained traction, the narrative shifted dramatically. The rising demand for affordable housing and alternative living arrangements brought tiny houses to the attention of local councils, many of which were unprepared for such a change. Most councils still operate under traditional planning frameworks, primarily focused on larger, more conventional homes. This has created a significant disconnect: local authorities are attempting to fit the concept of tiny houses—often mobile and legally classified as caravans—into outdated definitions that do not adequately accommodate this new form of housing. Legally, tiny houses built on wheels typically fit the definition of a caravan, described as "a vehicle fitted for habitation and capable of being towed." This classification allows for a level of flexibility in terms of planning regulations, enabling tiny house owners to bypass some of the stringent requirements imposed on permanent dwellings. Such provisions are essential, as many tiny house designs cannot meet all the technical requirements dictated by local planning frameworks, which were often created with larger structures in mind. For example, the Australian Tiny House Association (ATHA) has been advocating for clearer guidelines and recognition of tiny houses for over eight years. Despite this, councils across the country seem to be reacting only now, as the housing crisis intensifies. State and federal discussions have included tiny houses as a potential solution, but regulation has been largely devolved to local councils. This has led to a piecemeal approach, with advocates facing the daunting task of educating over 500 individual councils, often resulting in frustration and delays. In 2023, notable political figures like Rose Jackson, the Housing Minister for NSW, criticized councils for acting as "Not In My Backyard" (NIMBY) entities, resisting state-level initiatives. In Victoria, Premier Dan Andrews took decisive action by implementing the VIC Housing Statement, which aimed to cut through bureaucratic red tape. Meanwhile, in South Australia, Housing Minister Nick Champion categorized tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) as "temporary accommodation," an assertion that raises eyebrows given the substantial investment involved in purchasing one. While certain regions, such as Queensland and New South Wales, have begun collaborating with tiny house builders to establish frameworks that recognize their safety and compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC), significant hurdles remain. For instance, challenges related to stair steepness, loft bedroom heights, and space clearance around fixtures have raised doubts about whether tiny houses can fully meet all NCC
requirements. The situation is further complicated by the perception that living in a caravan for extended periods somehow transforms it into a permanent structure. Councils often argue that once a caravan is "plumbed" into the ground, it becomes a fixture, thus subjecting it to more stringent regulations. However, existing legislation does not support this notion; a caravan remains a caravan regardless of how long it's occupied. This misunderstanding is rooted in a misinterpretation of infrastructure regulations regarding ‘plumbing in’ and therefore ‘fixed to the ground’. However they can be plumbed in ’temporarily’, as has been accepted by one judge. (Do see the resource page in the magazine for links to court transcripts) Encouragingly, some forward-thinking councils have begun to amend their caravan regulations to accommodate tiny houses. Esperance in Western Australia stands out as a model for allowing tiny houses as primary and secondary dwellings. Other councils, including Boddington, Ravensthorpe, Capel, Mount Alexander Shire, Surf Coast Shire, Shell Harbour, Port Stephens, Byron Bay, Sunshine Coast, and Noosa, have introduced specific policies recognising tiny houses. For individuals living in areas where policies are still ambiguous, the absence of a formal regulation does not equate to a denial; In Brisbane the absence of a policy has meant the opposite - you can live in a caravan in your backyard, and the council will not interfere unless a neighbour complaint is received. However, residents must remain vigilant. Local councils are obligated to respond to complaints, and disputes between tiny house owners and neighbours have often stemmed from issues like noise, inadequate waste management, or perceived invasions of privacy. Consequently, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and maintaining good relations with neighbours is paramount.
THE OPPOSITE OF ADVOCACY
Jumping up and down. Making entitled statements. Calling councils stupid and corrupt. Statements such as “Tiny Houses will solve homelessness" (not true at all). And, (this one we get a lot), giving them a long, long list of your personal circumstances, stories of woe, bad luck, and perceived oppression, as a reason to bend the rules… IS ALL THE OPPOSITE OF ADVOCACY. In fact, as explained by our speaker, Mr Yarwood, it is actually called ‘Corruption”!
Asking the council to simply bypass all the normal rules a primary dwelling needs to adhere to, just because your house is small and you want what you want, without any council interference, is counter-productive to advocacy efforts. You will need a DA/Planning permission like everyone else on the street. Being calm, and repeatedly asking for a pathway to achieve your tiny house dream, however, is productive and IS ADVOCACY.
Visit: www.tinyhomesexpo.com.au/legal-links to discover lots more information regarding tiny houses and councils / laws. Also www.tinyhomesexpo.com.au/tiny-housecouncils covers why councils ’think’ they are tiny house friendly, but are not!
At Modular Building Brokers, we believe in making your Tiny Home journey as stress-free as possible. We liaise with your build factory to get your home on your land and liveable. This includes earthworks, certifications, council approvals, transport of build, connection of services, septic/treatment plants, installation, decking, and Final Certificate of Occupancy. Safe, legal, and done right the first time.
Give us a call on 0477 409 449, or email sales@mbbrokers.com.au.
ACN: 684 445 921
ABN: 36 684 445 921
QBCC: 1550 6557
Perfect as a Tiny Home, guest suite, or Air BNB; built for versatility and speed, also great for accommodation, workspaces, or investment properties anywhere in Australia. Each unit is fully insulated against Australia’s harsh climate and our 6m expanding units come standard with a kitchenette and bathroom. When combined with one of our purpose-built trailers your mobile housing needs are answered. Talk to us about our fit-out options.
Expandabox.com.au
Call Wayne on 0417840061 sales@expandabox.com.au
Big Rhino Crane Hire is a fast growing Crane Hire Company with our Brand stamped firmly on the Brisbane & Gold Coast markets and we pride ourselves on our very capable, experienced and friendly staff.
Give us a call on 0434 243 151 to book a crane and… GET HOOKED ON OUR HORN
Eco昀o Wastewater Management is the leading manufacturer and retailer of waterless composting toilets and greywater systems in Australia.
Based in Brisbane, they provide solutions that are environmentally smart and costeffective for domestic, commercial, off-grid, camping and accommodation-based purposes.
eco昀o.com.au
DANDELION SAFE HOUSE
I am a Building Designer with a passion for building Tiny Homes. I have built my own as a safe and affordable option after leaving a Domestic Violence Family situation. [Karen Muras]
Our aim is to have a rural education centre with onsite Tiny accommodation. Support programs for mental health, financial and parenting education, sustainability, gardening and off grid living.
https://www.dandelionsafehomes.com.au
“Our business has been using Fixtech adhesive and sealants for countless years now and wouldn't recommend using another supplier. Their service is impeccable along with their product range”
Fixtech Trusted Bonding Solutions Since 2001
Fixtech is a 100% Australian owned and operated company, trusted across industries since 2001. We deliver superior bonding solutions and high-quality adhesive sealants and silicones at an affordable cost. Our products are trusted and used by professionals worldwide.
As the first to introduce a non-yellowing white sealant to the Australian market, Fixtech continues to lead through innovation and reliability.
Our global teams go beyond supply — offering expert support, installation guidance, and technical problem-solving. Wherever you are, Fixtech is committed to delivering professional help and real value to every customer, every time.
“Superior products, great service & staff. I have been a customer for 11 years. Always got stock and it is quality. I would give 10 stars if I could. Keep up the awesome service team and thank you”
Taylex Wastewater Treatment Systems
Taylex Systems work like mini municipal treatment plants right in your own backyard. They harness natural processes to nurture the beneficial bacteria that naturally occur in your household wastewater, helping break down
organic waste and harmful bacteria. By installing a Taylex system, you can safely reuse your home’s wastewater, turning it into clean, clear, and odour-free water that’s perfect for irrigating your garden.
Bellevue FullPage
The Tiny House Industry Awards 2025
The Tiny House Industry Awards are back for 2025- and the program is already underway! Builders from all across Australia are vying for recognition in 10 different categories, showcasing the very best of our industry.
We’re excited to announce this year’s finalists, in no particular order:
TINY HOUSE BUILDER OF THE YEAR:
Candy Constructions
LJM Removed Treehab
BEST BUDGET BUILD:
Freedom Living Solutions
Tiny Mobile Wheelie Rooms
BEST LUXURY BUILD:
Candy Constructions (Ti Tree Casa model) Removed (Shak project)
Tiny Noosa (Bangalow model)
RISING STAR:
Adapt Homes
Aspire Tiny Homes
Black Clay
BEST DESIGN:
LJM (Noosa model)
Tiny Tect (Wildscape model)
Unplugd (Kookaburra model)
BEST STYLING:
Base Cabin
Candy Constructions
Tiny Noosa
BEST WEEKENDER:
Base Cabin (Kangaroo Island) Elsewhere Pods (Peachester) Removed (Grampians)
BEST FAMILY HOME:
Treehab (Melaleuca)
LJM (Noosa)
BEST SUPPORTING BUSINESS: FrameHab Metframe
RRT Transport
GREEN STAR:
In addition, there was ONE absolute standout nominee in the Green Star Award Category for sustainable Tiny House construction. This nominee scored extremely highly- in fact,
among the highest of all entrants across the whole Awards program. That level of excellence absolutely deserves recognition.
We are excited to announce Evergreen Homes as both a finalist and the winner of the 2025 Green Star Award!Congratulations Adam!
All other winners will be revealed at the Tiny House Industry Awards presentation in Brisbane, held as part of the Tiny Homes Expo on October 3rd, 2025.
To find out more about the program and see all winners and finalists, visit: tinyhouseindustry.com.au/awards
