An unexpected coalition of political and industry leaders has emerged to challenge the South Australian government's controversial legislation requiring larger garages in new homes.
Strange Bedfellows Unite Against Garage Mandate
Greens MLC Robert Simms and Urban Development Institute of Australia SA chief executive Liam Golding have formed what critics are calling an "unholy alliance" against Planning Minister Nick Champion's proposed bill. The legislation, set for upper house assessment this week, would mandate bigger garage spaces in all new residential properties across South Australia.
The garage bill represents one of at least 14 pieces of legislation scheduled for review by the upper house during the current parliamentary session. The packed legislative agenda has prompted concerns about proper scrutiny, with one member of the Legislative Council describing the government's approach as "treating the upper house like some sort of sausage factory."
Broad Opposition Emerges
The unusual partnership between the Greens and property development interests highlights the widespread concern about the proposed garage requirements. Both parties have come out strongly against the legislation, despite their typically divergent perspectives on housing and development issues.
Robert Simms, representing the Greens, and Liam Golding of UDIA SA have publicly criticised the bill's potential impact on housing affordability and urban design. Their joint opposition signals that the legislation faces significant hurdles in the upper house, where crossbench support will be crucial for its passage.
Legislative Timeline and Context
The controversial bill was introduced and updated on November 25, 2025, by journalist David Simmons. The timing places it among a substantial package of legislation that upper house members must consider within a compressed timeframe.
Critics argue that the larger garage mandate could have several unintended consequences:
- Increased construction costs for new homes
- Reduced housing affordability for buyers
- Negative impacts on urban density and design
- Potential environmental concerns through increased land use
The bill's progression through parliament will be closely watched as the unusual coalition of opponents continues to voice their concerns about what they see as unnecessary regulation in the housing market.
