The property sector welcomes the decision to maintain housing with a dedicated Cabinet level Minister for Housing as part of today’s reshuffle of the Federal Cabinet.
The appointment of Brendan O’Connor as Minister for Housing is an acknowledgement of the role housing plays as a centrepiece for Australian families’ security and wellbeing, said Caryn Kakas, Residential Development Council Executive Director.
“As member for Gordon in Melbourne’s rapidly growing outer west, Mr O’Connor will be able to bring first-hand experience of the importance of delivering both housing and infrastructure to new communities.”
“We thank Robert McClelland for his work over the past few months and his willingness to rapidly familiarise himself with the key issues facing the residential property sector.”
"Minister O’Connor will need to build upon the endeavours of previous Ministers to facilitate the delivery of housing supply and drive the affordability reform agenda.”
“This reform agenda must focus on the broader operation of the housing market and identify the appropriate role for governments in removing the underlying market barriers to delivery.”
“It is crucial that the barriers impacting the delivery of affordable housing be addressed. These include reforming the taxation system, eliminating unnecessary planning delays and ensuring the timely delivery of linking infrastructure and amenity to communities,” she said.
“The portfolio must secure commitment with State Governments if these barriers are to be addressed.”
“Housing should be the focal point for a system that clearly aligns long-term planning, infrastructure and the provision of both homes and jobs,” said Ms Kakas.
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Media Contacts:
Caryn Kakas, Executive Director, Residential Development Council on 0404 257 540 or ckakas@propertyoz.com.au; or
Emma Clark, PR & Communications Manager, Residential Development Council on 0428 950 866 or eclark@propertyoz.com.au
