|
First time voters may never become first home buyers
Gillard and Abbott must save the dream of homeownership for a generation of AustraliansThe dramatic collapse in the first home buyers market has driven housing affordability to the top of the Federal election agenda.
The latest ABS data showing first home buyers at their lowest level since 2001 shows urgent action is required by both parties to solve the growing housing affordability crisis.
“A generation of first time voters in this election face the prospect they will never be first home buyers,” said REINSW President Wayne Stewart
“First home buyer activity in June 2010 slumped 3.9% according to the ABS, with loans for new home dwellings falling 5%.
“There is a housing affordability crisis which is ending the homeownership dream for thousands of Australians, some of whom will be voting for the first time in this Federal election.
“Both Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott have the power in their hands to help make buying a home more affordable by cutting the cost of development of new residential housing by abolishing the GST.
“The GST, when added to the raft of other property related taxes imposed at all levels of government, is choking new residential development across Australia.
“Not only does this limit new housing supply but forces prices even higher and out of reach of young Australians wanting to buy their first home.
“Both candidates need to declare to the first time voters they are courting, what they will do to keep the Great Australian Dream a reality.
“REINSW has released its Real Tax policy which outlines the steps needed at a Federal and State level to address the housing affordability crisis which is gripping the nation.
“Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott – don’t let first time voters lose out on their first home dream.
“Both the ALP and the Coalition must put their cards on the table before election day so that voters can make an informed choice as to which party will deliver greater housing affordability,” said Mr Stewart.
The REINSW ‘Real Tax Policy’ is available at www.reinsw.com.au/realtax
Media contact – Julian Brophy 0408 276 749
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|