In the national debate on housing, we use our strong voice to leverage the important things.
A national, state and local focus on all land use planning. Unlocking last mile infrastructure for all property projects. Better property investment settings. Greater skilled migration.
So, productive discussions to start the week on both coasts with 2GBs Ben Fordham show and Perth’s Gary Adshead on 6PR covering all these important matters.
We marked the firing of the starter’s gun on the national target of 1.2 million well located homes by 2029. ABS data shows only 963,064 homes were completed over the last five years.
I said we could get to our 1.2 million target. Only if we redoubled our efforts.
We need to lift our game to nab a podium finish across homes to sell and rent, retirement living and purpose-built student communities and social housing.
We are a land rich country but government taxes on housing (part of our neolithic tax system), slow planning systems, high borrowing and materials costs and dire skill shortages make us wooden spooners on housing supply.
The tricks up our sleeves?
More federal funding in future years, especially for up front last mile infrastructure. More not less skilled migration. Purposeful planning reform. High community benefit assets like retirement villages and purpose-built student accommodation. And an attitude of ‘yes’ across industry, agencies, departments and all governments to hit that target.
We need to move from 170,000 homes a year now into the high 200,000s in order to average 240,000 over the five years. We need a housing partnership involving all levels of government, industry and the community.
Our message to parliaments is clear: bring your best game, Australia is watching.
Take a bow Sally Capp AO
Being Melbourne’s Lord Mayor is not for those who like a quiet life.
Imagine the next level. Getting someone passionate and talented to run the show.
Bonus. Level. Unlocked.
A strong advocate for business throughout her career. A leader for Melbourne through dark times and the recovery. Sally has been a great friend to her chosen city and to many people who work and live there.
We were never destined to agree precisely on CBD traffic flow or holding the state accountable on state government agency withdrawl and city safety but Sally has done her all to ensure Melbourne is better placed for its future growth.
Thank you again Sally for your leadership and a compassionate and redeeming innings for the city.
May the road rise up to meet you.
Next week: killing a good idea slowly.