- On 24 November 2025, discussions in the Australian Senate highlighted significant concerns surrounding housing affordability and the overall cost of living for everyday Australians.
- Senator McKim of the Greens led the discourse by bringing attention to the ongoing housing crisis, citing a marked increase in investor lending and the negative implications this trend holds for first home buyers. McKim criticized the Labor government’s substantial tax breaks totaling $181 billion directed at wealthy property investors, arguing that these policies disproportionately benefit investors at the expense of ordinary citizens seeking affordable housing (Pages 77-78).
- In a counterpoint, Senator Bragg from the Liberal Party contended that the government’s initiatives, including the Housing Australia Future Fund and a scheme allowing a five percent deposit for homebuyers, have failed to effectively address housing shortages. He pointed to a rising population coupled with a declining availability of housing, asserting that the Labor government has not delivered on its promises to provide adequate housing stock (Page 77).
- Senator Walker, representing the Labor Party, defended the government’s stance, arguing that direct control over investor lending fell outside the government’s authority due to the independence of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). He expressed confidence that the government remains committed to fulfilling its housing promises and highlighted an upcoming boost in dwelling commencements (Pages 78-79).
- Senator Whitten of One Nation emphasized the vital role of private property investment in the housing landscape, warning that vilifying property investors would obstruct potential resolutions to the housing crisis. He called for a cooperative approach that recognizes the contributions of investors to housing availability (Pages 79-80).
- Following these exchanges, Senator Stewart reaffirmed the necessity for housing reforms under the Labor government, providing statistics on social and affordable housing developed since their leadership began. He dismissed the coalition’s previous record during their time in power as inadequate (Page 80).
- Senator Pocock echoed the urgency of addressing the housing crisis, advocating for more substantial measures from the government to enhance housing ownership opportunities, particularly for younger Australians (Pages 80-81).
- Throughout these discussions, the theme of escalating housing costs, socio-economic inequity, and the necessity for effective policies to promote housing affordability were central. The division among senators regarding the best strategies to tackle these pressing issues illustrates the complexity of the ongoing dialogue in the Australian political landscape.
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