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“These initiatives reflect a positive shift in recognising the need for innovation and affordability in the residential building sector,” said Ms Martin.
“The $54 million commitment to boost Australia’s capacity in prefabricated and modular housing is a welcome investment in modern construction methods that can support greater innovation across the sector and fast track some housing forms.
“HIA released a landmark report in 2019 that called for greater national coordination to grow the offsite construction sector, including streamlined planning and building approvals, and this announcement is a strong step in that direction.
“The development of a voluntary national certification scheme is something that was a primary recommendation from our report to remove roadblocks to streamline approvals and provide regulatory certainty to support innovation in the sector.
“The expansion of the Help to Buy scheme is also something we have called for to give more first home buyers a real chance to enter the market.”
“Lifting income thresholds and linking property caps to average house prices will better reflect market conditions and broaden the potential uptake of this scheme across more regions.”
“But while these initiatives are encouraging, they must be backed by broader and deeper reforms if we are to meet the national target of 1.2 million new homes over five years.
“HIA’s Budget submission highlighted the urgent need for planning system reform and greater investment in key last mile infrastructure. Delays in development assessment and access to build ready land continue to be one of the biggest barriers to housing supply.
“Workforce shortages are also holding the industry back. More targeted investment in training and attracting skilled workers into residential construction is essential to lifting output.”
“We urge the Government to continue to work with industry on streamlining housing regulation and reducing duplication across state and federal levels—particularly for building approvals, environmental assessments and housing design compliance.”
“We’re pleased to see housing remaining high on the national agenda, and we look forward to working with all governments to make these initiatives successful and deliver the homes Australians need,” concluded Ms Martin.
“Australia’s population reached 27.4 million by the end of 2024, up by 445,900 people, or 1.7 per cent for the year,” stated HIA Senior Economist, Tom Devitt.
The Tasmanian election that no-one wanted to have is in full swing, and while the limited campaign period is unlikely to provide the usual platform to promote key policies and reforms, HIA is calling on both major parties to prioritise housing policies given the significant challenges across the state.
“Our dated and complex planning system is littered with speed bumps that could easily be removed”, said Brad Armitage, HIA NSW Executive Director.
“The Victorian government’s proposal to update home building contract laws to make them fit for use in the 21st century is welcomed by HIA,” stated HIA Executive Director, Keith Ryan.