This morning I’m on an AFR business summit panel. Discussing the policy settings needed to stimulate growth and build resilience. Future Australian budgets, already in structural deficit, will need us to do more with less money as we boost defence spending.
We will cover the Productivity Commission’s new estimates of the physical productivity decline in housing construction. Back in 1995, we produced twice as many Australian homes per hour worked. Blimey.
More efficient planning systems between all levels of government and utilities to accelerate all property projects will be a productive, low cost first step.
Great WA Treasurers’ debate ahead of 8 March election
Always important to be driving the discussions that matter to members.
Last Friday our WA team put on a terrific lunch debate. The Honourables Treasurer Rita Saffioti and Shadow Treasurer Steve Martin outlined their fiscal plans for the next four years to a large crowd.
Both understand our point that the efficiency of the planning system and housing production matters in our country’s very own commodity superpower.
Our WA Executive Director Nicola Brishcetto admirably and fairly hosted proceedings in the presence of new President Julie Drago and many former Presidents and Division Councillors.
Three days till the state poll in one of the few regional governments around the world in structural surplus.
April National Housing Solutions Summit – book now
Housing will be a top election priority and it needs industry and government leaders to cooperate on the supply we sorely need.
Hear from Housing Minister Clare O’Neil MP and Shadow Housing Minister Michael Sukkar MP on their solves for the nation’s BBQ-stopper.
Also hear from Housing Australia CEO Scott Langford, Productivity Commission Chair Danielle Wood and Grattan Institute Housing and Economic Security Program Director Brendan Coates.
Secure your spot now, here.
WGEA report
Yesterday, WGEA published information on median gender pay gaps for companies with more than 100 employees. This remains an important step in advancing gender equality.
Our sector employs 1.5 million Australians and only 26 per cent are women. As one of the Property Champions of Change I can say with conviction that leaning into the increasing diversity of our industry should be a golden thread running through our day to day work. This includes our Pitch Pledge, ensuring women’s inclusion in property deals, and our brand new early career program to boost diversity in capital transactions and leasing.
Increasing women’s involvement and narrowing the gender pay gap in the property industry are essential for better business outcomes, fairness and addressing our sector’s ongoing skills shortages.
While we should be proud of the progress made over the past decade, there is much work to be done and to accelerate.
Next week – The election storm breaks…