The Albanese government has announced a significant reshuffle of its ministry, with Clare O’Neil appointed as the new Minister for Housing and Homelessness.
The Property Council of Australia has welcomed this change and urged the incoming minister to prioritise quick wins in addressing housing affordability ahead of the upcoming federal election.
Recent YouGov polling indicates that housing affordability has surpassed living standards and health as the top concern for Australians.
In response to this, Property Council of Australia Chief Executive Mike Zorbas outlined five key policy areas that the new minister could focus on to achieve the government’s target of 1.2 million new homes by 2029.
These policy levers include:
- Increasing funding for last-mile infrastructure to unlock new housing developments
- Addressing construction labour shortages
- Improving mortgage accessibility for young first-home buyers
- Implementing build-to-rent housing legislation
- Developing policies to support high community benefit housing, including accommodation for seniors and students
Zorbas acknowledged the work of outgoing Housing Minister Julie Collins, praising her efforts in establishing national housing targets and creating the Housing Australia Future Fund and the National Housing Affordability and Supply Council.
The reshuffle also saw Jenny McAllister promoted to Minister for Cities and Minister for Emergency Management.
The Property Council expressed support for this move, noting McAllister’s previous work on energy efficiency policies.
This cabinet reshuffle comes as part of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s efforts to refresh and energise his government in key areas such as immigration and housing.
The changes are seen as a response to growing voter concerns and an attempt to position the government favourably ahead of the next federal election.
