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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationAction Needed on First Home Owner Grant as Housing Approvals Fall
Action Needed on First Home Owner Grant as Housing Approvals Fall
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The Australian Bureau of Statistics today released its monthly building approvals data for October 2025, covering detached houses and multi-units across all states and territories.
“While approvals in October were higher than the same month last year, the sharp monthly decline highlights the volatility in the market and the ongoing challenge of delivering enough homes for Tasmanians,” Mr Price said.
Over the 12 months to October 2025, total approvals reached just under 2,400 – only 2.4 per cent higher than the previous year. Detached housing approvals were virtually flat (-0.7 per cent), while multi-unit approvals fell by 15.3 per cent.
“Tasmania’s population continues to grow and age and demand for housing is outpacing supply. Established home prices keep rising because we are not building enough new homes in well-located areas,” Mr Price added.
“One of the most effective ways to stimulate new home construction is through direct support for first home buyers,” said HIA Executive Director – Tasmania, Benjamin Price.
“The legislation currently before the Legislative Council to triple the First Home Owner Grant is critical. Increasing the grant will help more young Tasmanians overcome the deposit hurdle, stimulate demand for new builds rather than established homes, and give builders and developers the confidence to bring projects forward.”
“We also call on the Tasmanian Government to adopt the Federal Government’s Help to Buy Scheme to complement the existing MyHome Shared Equity program,” Mr Price added.
“Together, these measures would provide a powerful combination of support – helping more Tasmanians into home ownership, boosting construction activity, and addressing Tasmania’s housing shortage.”
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