Have your say on a New Housing Strategy


Released 28/07/2017

I have today issued a discussion paper – Towards a new Housing Strategy - to help inform a community conversation about housing and homelessness ahead of a housing summit the ACT Government will hold in October.

Building on a broader consultation which began last year and is now ramping up towards the summit, the Government will use the discussions to inform a new housing strategy that will aim to reduce homelessness, strengthen social housing assistance, increase affordable rental options and improve pathways to affordable home ownership.

The ACT Government has effectively implemented a number of both supply and demand side measures to improve affordability including accelerated land supply, the 20% Greenfield affordable housing target and land tax and stamp duty reductions, particularly for properties at the lower end of the market.

The 2017 ACT Budget also changes land tax arrangements for vacant investment properties to encourage owners to provide their properties on the rental market.

Suitable and secure housing is an important foundation for full and active participation in our community.  Without it, individuals and families may become isolated and excluded and the adverse consequences of this can be long-term and intergenerational.

The challenge is not just one for government. Different sectors need to work together as a community to identify and deliver workable solutions to strengthen housing assistance and address housing affordability in Canberra.

In developing this new Strategy, the Government will be talking to community organisations, industry and service providers but equally important is the input from all Canberrans on their experiences, ideas, suggestions and solutions.

There are a range of opportunities to contribute your ideas and help to shape the government’s thinking and these are outlined on the ACT Government’s Your Say website.  I ask you to get involved.

You can access the discussion paper and other information, as well as provide your feedback at www.yoursay.act.gov.au/affordablehousing

- Statement ends -

Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases

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