The HAFF represents a $3 billion investment aimed at addressing Australia’s housing crisis through the rapid construction of social housing across the country.
Property Council Group Executive Policy and Advocacy, Matthew Kandelaars, said the fast-tracked funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing housing challenges.
“The government’s decision to fast-track funding for 5,000 new social homes is another strong signal of the national priority to build more homes, more quickly,” Mr Kandelaars said.
The program includes a ‘use it or lose it’ approach to ensure timely delivery and partnerships with community housing providers to accelerate construction timelines.
Community Housing Industry Association (CHIA) CEO Wendy Hayhurst praised the government’s emphasis on collaboration with the community housing sector.
“We are particularly pleased to see the government’s strong encouragement for states and territories to partner with community housing providers in delivering these homes,” Ms Hayhurst said.
The announcement follows the first round of HAFF funding, which aims to house over 25,000 Australians, with plans already in motion to expedite Round 3 early next year.
Housing Minister Clare O’Neil said the government was committed to increasing housing supply nationwide.
“This is a great new partnership with states and territories that is going to fast-track 5,000 new social homes because the way out of this housing crisis is to build, build, build,” Ms O’Neil said.
CHIA Vice Chair Rebecca Oelkers said the sector was ready to deliver on these ambitious targets.
“The community housing sector stands ready to work with government partners to ensure these much-needed homes are delivered as quickly as possible to the Australians who need them most,” Ms Oelkers said.
