Federal Budget recognises housing pressures, but sustained investment remains critical
Housing Trust has welcomed the Federal Government’s continued focus on housing in Tuesday night’s Budget, while calling for ongoing investment to ensure more Australians can access safe, secure and affordable homes.
Housing Trust CEO Amanda Winks said access to housing sits at the heart of a fair society.
“Access to safe, secure and affordable housing is fundamental to a fair Australia. It’s encouraging to see housing recognised as a priority in tonight’s Budget,” Ms Winks said.
“We know housing really matters to Australians. Around 79 percent of voters support increasing the supply of social housing, and there is strong community backing for action in this space.”
Ms Winks said the scale of housing need remains significant at a local level.
“Across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, around 4,000 people are currently waiting for an offer of social housing, with thousands more households experiencing housing stress in the private rental market.”
“That demand tells us we need sustained, long-term action to increase supply, particularly for those on low incomes who are being priced out of safe and stable housing.”
Ms Winks welcomed housing-related tax reforms announced in the Budget, noting their potential to improve access for those currently locked out of the market.
“Reforms that create fairer access to housing, particularly for young people and low income households, are a positive step. These changes acknowledge that the system needs to work better for people who are struggling to find a place to call home.”
She said reform must be matched with reinvestment to deliver outcomes for those most in need.
“We need to keep working towards a housing system that includes enough social and affordable rental homes to support a healthy market overall.”
“A meaningful share of any additional housing tax revenue should be reinvested into social and affordable housing. Without reinvestment, the people who need it most risk missing out.
“Australia needs a permanent, predictable commonwealth investment approach beyond current Housing Australia Future Fund rounds, treating social and affordable housing as essential infrastructure.
Ms Winks also welcomed the Government’s $2 billion investment in enabling infrastructure, highlighting the importance of ensuring it delivers inclusive outcomes.
“This is a sensible investment. Infrastructure is essential to unlocking new housing supply, but it is important that the homes delivered include social and affordable housing as part of the mix.”
Additional support for young people was also recognised as an important measure.
“Young people are among those hardest hit by housing insecurity. Targeted investment to support their access to community housing is a practical step that can make a real difference.”
Ms Winks said while further detail is expected in the coming days, the direction set by the Budget reflects the scale and importance of the housing challenge.
“We are working through the detail as it becomes available. What matters most is that we maintain a clear focus on building a fairer housing system so all Australians can access the stability that comes with a secure home.”
“Housing Trust stands ready to continue working with government and partners to deliver more homes and better outcomes for people and communities.”
