The state’s advocacy organisation for low-income housing consumers welcomes yesterday’s state Budget. The allocation of funds to the housing policy and assistance program of Housing NSW and the Aboriginal Housing Office increased by a whopping 223%.
‘After a decade of more of decline – it’s very good that there is serious money available to address some of the shortcomings and provide additional housing for those “doing it tough” ’, said Mary Perkins, Executive Officer for Shelter NSW.The allocations confirm arrangements made through the National Affordable Housing Agreement and the National Partnership Agreements – including the economic stimulus package.
Mary Perkins also noted that, ‘in order to address the chronic shortage of housing affordable to low- and middle-income households this level of expenditure is needed beyond the period of the economic stimulus package’.
Shelter NSW also welcomed the decision to provide a private rental subsidy scheme for women leaving domestic violence.
‘This scheme will provide women with another option. At present many women seeking to leave domestic violence have limited options because they cannot afford private rental and are unable to access public housing,’ said Mary Perkins.
Shelter NSW has serious reservations about the decision to extend the concessions on stamp duty to the purchase of new property under $600,000.
‘As popular as this measure is, there is a very real risk that the benefit will not be passed on to the consumer and will be capitalised in the price. It would be far better if the government spent this money on enhancing capital funding for non-profit rental and shared equity housing programs’, said Mary Perkins.The construction of non-profit housing has direct economic benefits in terms of jobs and purchase of building materials and the associated multiplier effects through the general community. In addition it does not contribute to house price inflation.
Enquiries: Mary Perkins on 0419 919 091; (02) 9267 5733 ext. 14.
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