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Chaired by Simon Croft, HIA Chief Executive, Industry & Policy, the event brought together members and stakeholders, along with Senator Andrew Bragg – Shadow Assistant Minister for Home Ownership, Maria Kovacic, Liberal Senator for New South Wales and the Liberal candidate for the seat of Paterson, Laurence Antcliff.
“Attendees were candid in their discussions, highlighting areas where a future federal government can support the residential building industry. There was a strong focus on both supply and demand matters that are affecting housing affordability,” Mr Jennion said.
“Pleasingly attendees didn’t hold back, and it is clear that there is much that a future federal government can and must do to support the industry to build the volume of housing that the Hunter desperately needs.
“Builders highlighted four key issues that must be addressed that would keep home ownership within reach of everyday Australians. This included:
Addressing the industries chronic skills shortages;
Fast-tracking build ready land and investment in roads, sewers, electricity and water to make this happen;
Cutting the myriad and ever increasing regulatory red tape being embedded on builders; and
Improving financial settings for home ownership to support all Australians into housing.
“HIA today outlined our 2025 federal election campaign titled Let’s Build which goes to the heart of these issues. It advocates for increased support for residential builders, addressing the two decade long workforce issues and putting a pause on further red and green tape which is driving up home building costs.
“Key to addressing the housing crisis, involves all levels of governments making housing in all forms and in all locations a national priority and our election campaign calls on all political parties in this upcoming election to make this commitment and implement long terms reforms to achieve this objective,” concluded Mr Jennion.
In what has been a difficult time for many Victorians, HIA welcomes the package of support measures announced by the Allan and Albanese Governments to support businesses, individuals and communities affected by the recent Victorian bushfires.
“HIA is disappointed that the Victorian government has announced new proposals to further increase property taxes,” stated HIA Executive Director Victoria, Keith Ryan.
HIA says residential builders and trades remain cautious about hiring in 2026. Not due to a lack of housing demand, but because of mounting cost pressures, regulatory hurdles, and persistent skills shortages, according to a survey of small to medium enterprise members.
Workplace laws are set for more changes in 2026.