Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Commonwealth Land (Affordable Housing) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Senate · Thursday 2 July 2026

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

At a glance

Independent senator David Pocock introduced the bill to mandate affordable housing inclusions on surplus Commonwealth land sold to private entities. He argued that Australia faces a severe housing crisis exacerbated by the decline of social housing and the impending exhaustion of the Housing Australia Future Fund. The proposed legislation aims to leverage federal land assets to increase supply and ensure social mix in urban developments. The debate was adjourned after Pocock sought leave to continue his remarks later.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned after leave was granted for the senator to continue remarks later.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

David Pocock (ACT) (Independent) Ind

Pocock argued that the national housing system has failed to provide equity, citing a long-term decline in social housing and rising homelessness. Pocock highlighted that the Housing Australia Future Fund would be exhausted by the end of the year, creating a funding cliff-edge for new investment. The bill proposes requiring affordable housing inclusions on surplus Commonwealth land disposed of through sale or long lease. Pocock defined affordable housing as rentals capped at 75% of market rent or 30% of household income, whichever is lower. Pocock stated that this measure would help combat social polarisation and allow essential workers to live near their employment in inner urban areas.