Chief Executive | Federal housing policy – a tale of two approaches

In sunny Canberra today with President Hourigan.

Speaking with both major parties at the highest levels.

Reinforcing the pre-election agenda we have run since last year. A pro-investment approach to the property assets powering our cities.

Both sides understand where we are coming from.

The government is according with the states to achieve challenging housing targets and worthy planning reform. What gets measured is less likely to remain undone. They are cleverly supporting greater investment in build-to-rent – Regulations to come!

The Coalition is intending to deal directly with local government with heavier spending on dissolving infrastructure blockages. Construction skills are exempt from their proposed immigration constraints. Super is on the table as an ownership bridge for first home buyers.

Both sides have more work to do on supporting sorely needed retirement living and purpose-built student accommodation. This will take the rental pressure off the middle of the market. Both sides can afford more on social housing.

In the excitement, the Greens have also piled in. Plenty of classic command and control ideas including supply killing rent freezes and gold-plated government developers. This with a long history of opposing density tooth and nail and maligning the private sector along the way. No thanks.

Our pitch? In a skill-starved world, rife with state deficits, Australian city success requires more global capital partners, the embrace of skilled overseas workers, more resilient and efficient built form and close government and industry cooperation.

Wish us luck today and watch this space for the details of our election platform and Election Connection.

ISPT now a Corporate Leader 

With apologies to poets everywhere: We say it often because it is true, members are at the heart of everything we do. 

I am excited to announce that ISPT has upgraded from National Membership to become a Corporate Leader.  

Corporate Leader membership is our top-tier, invitation-only national membership group.  

Corporate Leaders are the first to shape our advocacy priorities and amplify our industry’s voice. 

Our Corporate Leaders employ tens of thousands of talented people who invest in, develop and manage the landmark assets that define our cities. 

ISPT seeks to create better futures for working Australians and they are leaders in our industry and beyond. With a laser focus on environmental and social sustainability, thousands of people directly benefit from the positive impact their property portfolio has on cities and communities around the country. 

Thanks to you Chris, and your terrific leadership team for going all in.

We look forward to working more closely with you in the years ahead. 

A well-deserved accolade for Kirsti Simpson

A hearty congratulations to Property Council Queensland Division Councillor Kirsti Simpson who has been inducted into the 2024 Design Institute of Australia Hall of Fame.

In a career marked by groundbreaking achievements, this acknowledgment reflects your influence in shaping the future of both Australian and international design Kirsti.

Our thanks for your continuing service to our industry. Shining a bright light indeed.

Next week – ‘Don’t ruin the opportunity’