The Housing Industry of Australia (HIA) has welcomed the news the government is planning to inject $3.8bn of infrastructure investment in the next four years, particularly celebrating the commitment to eliminate some of the barriers hindering Australian housing.
“Supporting the housing industry to deliver homes in a timely and affordable way is essential to address the home ownership aspirations of first home buyers, to create jobs and to support a healthy Australian economy," said Kristin Brookfield, HIA chief executive of industry policy.
“HIA has long argued for the removal of red tape in planning approval processes. It is important that this has been recognised as a priority by the government.
“The overlap between commonwealth, state and local government in this space continues to frustrate many projects, adding time, confusion and cost.”
According to the HIA, infrastructure such as roads and bridges are vital to the housing supply in Australia. The promised investment can assist the supply of new housing and may “mean more people can get into a home.”
“Demand for housing remains strong due to our ongoing population growth, and any productivity reforms the government can implement to increase supply are welcome,” said Brookfield.
HIA plans to continue working with the government to identify other ways to support housing supply and help monitor the pipeline of residential land and housing across the nation.
“There is certainly more that can be done through a national approach to productivity reforms. It’s important for all levels of governments to look at ways they can support business, improve housing supply and recognise that home ownership matters,” Brookfield said.
