Question Time AU

Matter of Public Importance

Housing

House of Representatives · Wednesday 30 July 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Members debated the severity of Australia's housing crisis, with independents calling for innovative funding models, tax reform, and greater regional focus. Labor members defended the government's $43 billion housing plan, including the Housing Australia Future Fund and build-to-rent initiatives, while criticising opposition policies. Speakers highlighted issues such as homelessness, rental stress, and the need for infrastructure coordination.

Outcome

The motion was debated as a Matter of Public Importance; no vote was taken.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Boele argued that homelessness and housing unaffordability are worsening despite government initiatives. Boele called for the federal government to use its leverage under the National Housing Accord to ensure a larger proportion of new builds are affordable. Boele suggested expanding the Housing Australia Future Fund beyond its current $500 million annual grant disbursement. Boele advocated for creative financing solutions, such as allowing institutional superannuation funds to invest in 'build-to-rent-to-own' models like those used by Assemble, without raiding individual super savings.