In a controversial move that has sparked outrage across Sydney, residents of affordable housing units in the prestigious Barangaroo development are being forced to use separate, inferior back entrances while their wealthy neighbours enjoy grand front entrances and premium amenities.
The Two-Tiered Entrance System
Documents obtained by The Guardian reveal that affordable housing tenants in One Barangaroo Tower must access their homes through a basic rear entrance, starkly different from the luxurious lobby available to market-rate residents. This practice, commonly known as "poor doors," has created a visible physical divide between different socioeconomic groups within the same building.
Developer Justifications and Community Backlash
The developer, Lendlease, defends the separate access points as necessary for security and operational efficiency. However, housing advocates and residents argue this creates a stigmatising environment that treats affordable housing tenants as second-class citizens.
"This is social apartheid in practice," said one community advocate. "When you physically separate people based on their income level, you're sending a clear message about who belongs and who doesn't."
Broader Implications for Urban Development
The Barangaroo case highlights a growing tension in urban development policies that require affordable housing components in luxury developments. While these policies aim to create integrated communities, the implementation often falls short, maintaining physical and social divisions.
- Separate entrances reinforce social stratification
- Differential access to amenities and services
- Psychological impact on affordable housing residents
- Questions about the effectiveness of inclusionary zoning policies
Legal and Ethical Questions
Legal experts are divided on whether such practices violate discrimination laws. While not explicitly illegal in many jurisdictions, critics argue they contravene the spirit of inclusive housing policies and create de facto segregation.
The controversy comes as Sydney faces an escalating housing crisis, with affordable housing becoming increasingly scarce and the gap between wealthy and low-income residents widening dramatically.
Community groups are now calling for policy reforms that would prevent such segregationist practices in future developments, arguing that true integration means equal access and dignity for all residents, regardless of income.
