The Albanese government has made efforts to encourage states to reduce bureaucratic obstacles and allocate more resources to constructing homes, as Australians struggle to afford properties in a rapidly growing market.
Opposition infrastructure spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie highlighted federal infrastructure funding as a tool to push states to prioritize housing, emphasizing that the situation has deteriorated “under Labor.”
“The Coalition will introduce a plan to increase housing availability for ordinary Australians,” she stated to AAP.
“There are various methods the federal government can use to encourage state and local governments to boost housing supply.
“The Commonwealth contributes significant infrastructure funding through national partnership agreements and grant programs.”
Opposition assistant spokesman for home ownership Andrew Bragg asserted that the federal government must find ways to compel states to invest more in housing.
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“All options are being considered,” Senator Bragg stated on the ABC’s Insiders program, regarding the possibility of using GST payments as leverage.
“When councils and states impede developments, especially in the apartment sector, it is detrimental to young people.
“Therefore, we must apply pressure on states and councils in any way possible to ensure adequate housing supply is established.”
Nationals Leader David Littleproud mentioned that he had not seen a specific proposal regarding the use of GST as leverage, but he emphasized that a punitive approach should not be necessary.
“This is a critical situation… and we find ourselves in this position due to the failure of state and local governments to plan and act,” he told AAP.
“Therefore, they must fulfill their responsibilities—this is what every Australian expects of them.”
Littleproud also suggested that recruiting more skilled workers could help alleviate the housing crisis.
