Opposition policies important contribution to housing debate

LABOR’S new housing affordability policies are an important contribution to the national debate and are welcomed by Master Builders Australia.

“Labor’s recognition of the need for a bipartisan and co-operative approach between governments at a state and federal level to boost supply by building more new housing is fundamentally important,” Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia said.

“For this reason, Master Builders calls on Labor to support our call for federal financial incentives to state governments to encourage the removal of regulatory barriers to building more new homes and the taxes and charges that drive up house prices,” she said.

“Labor’s consistent focus on helping first home buyers to overcome the deposit gap is supported by Master Builders.

“However, radically changing property tax arrangements will not make housing cheaper or address the structural factors that drive up house prices in the first place.”

Labor’s support for the establishment of a bond aggregator to ensure there is adequate investment in social and affordable housing is also important,Ms Wawn said.

“Master Builders has consistently called for adequate rental housing options.

“Master Builders is committed to keeping the dream of homeownership alive and welcomes Labor’s latest contribution to the debate on how to keep home ownership as part of the Australian way,” Ms Wawn said.