Housing

Venning argued that the scheme increases demand without matching supply, leading to higher house prices and larger loans for buyers. Venning cited Treasury modelling and economic principles to claim the policy benefits banks and investors rather than first home buyers. Venning criticised the Government for failing to address supply-side issues and for implementing regulations that hinder the housing sector. Venning called for a focus on increasing supply to lower prices.

Comer highlighted that the scheme reduces by up to eight years the period required to accumulate savings for a deposit and saves around $34,000 in mortgage insurance. Comer noted that over 185,000 Australians, including 800 in her electorate, had achieved homeownership through Labor's policies. Comer defended the Government's broader $43 billion housing agenda, which includes building 55,000 social and affordable homes via the Housing Australia Future Fund. Comer argued that the Coalition had neglected housing for nine years while Labor was taking comprehensive action.

Sharkie expressed concern that the scheme creates a subprime mortgage risk for taxpayers, who would cover insurance costs if buyers defaulted. Sharkie argued that unprecedented demand from the scheme, combined with high migration, was driving up house prices, citing reports of significant price increases in targeted segments. Sharkie pointed out distortions in the market due to arbitrary price caps in different regions. Sharkie called for an 'Australia first' policy that reduces migration and increases supply.

Cook stated that the scheme helps tradies and other workers buy homes sooner, with 391 people in her electorate already benefiting. Cook highlighted additional support for renters, including a 50 per cent increase in Commonwealth rent assistance, and crisis accommodation for those escaping domestic violence. Cook emphasised that the Government was building 100,000 homes for first home buyers and training construction workers. Cook argued that these measures provide security and dignity for Australians facing housing challenges.

Watson-Brown argued that the policy transfers $24 billion in interest payments to banks over five years and might raise property values by 10 per cent during the initial year. Watson-Brown claimed the scheme does not address negative gearing or capital gains tax discounts, which allow investors to outcompete first home buyers. Watson-Brown suggested that funds spent on AUKUS could instead build nearly one million public homes. Watson-Brown called for scrapping tax handouts for investors and massively increasing public housing construction.