THE GREAT DIVIDE.

Alan Kohler's Quarterly Essay, titled "The Great Divide," challenges the assumption that Australians are interested in fixing housing affordability and supply, suggesting that a majority may have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. The essay proposes a regional renaissance as a solution, emphasizing the potential for dynamic and thriving regional cities to provide affordable housing and a high quality of life. The essay also discusses the benefits of promoting small-to-medium enterprise (SME) businesses, drawing inspiration from the Mittelstand economies of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It suggests that investing in regional infrastructure, creating appealing employment options, and implementing zoning reforms are necessary steps towards achieving a balanced and sustainable housing market. [Extracted from the article]