Australians have had their say in another federal election. Following the counting of votes there have been no changes to party representation in electorates covering the HIA Hunter region.

From the Central Coast to the Hunter Valley the ALP retained six seats, whilst the National Party retained two seats covering the Upper Hunter and Mid Coast. Seven incumbent members were returned with Alison Penfold replacing the retiring David Gillespie in the seat of Lyne.

Housing was a key election issue, and HIA’s Let’s Build Australia campaign urged all political parties to prioritise housing as a national imperative. HIA secured some important wins leading up to the election: expanded options for first home buyers, increased support for apprentices and training, critical infrastructure investments, and a growing recognition of the need to tackle red tape.

Moving forward HIA calls on the newly elected Federal Government to make housing an immediate and top priority, any delay will only deepen the nation’s housing crisis.

Lastly, I wish all Hunter finalists at the HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards all the very best next weekend. Entries for the 2025 Hunter Awards close Friday 13 June.