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$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Canberra housing crisis deepens as building approvals hit new lows

Media release

Canberra housing crisis deepens as building approvals hit new lows

Media release
Building approvals for houses in Canberra have hit yet another a new low, with 2024 recording the lowest number for a twelve-month period (680) since records were first published in 1970.
“This is the worst building approval numbers for detached homes we have seen in 55 years. It is just not sustainable to think we can build at these levels and both expect the Canberra to grow and housing to become affordable,” said Greg Weller, HIA Executive Director ACT & Southern NSW.

“The situation for apartments and townhouses is little better, with only 1,500 multi-residential dwellings approved in 2024. This marks the lowest number of approvals over any twelve-month period since the year to November 2009.”

“Overall, the ACT had 2,180 dwellings approved in 2024, which is the lowest number of approvals since September 2007.”

“HIA has articulated a number of measures that could help address if implemented quickly, including easing taxation of new homes, improved planning measures and the cost of land.”

"If now is not the time for government to act urgently on housing supply, then when is?”

“There is only one way to address housing affordability and that is to build more homes,” concluded Mr Weller. 

For more information please contact:

Greg Weller

Executive Director - ACT/Southern NSW
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