Peak body welcomes commitment to cut red tape

HOUSING Industry Australia has welcomed a recent Federal government announcement that as part of its move to bring forward billions of dollars in infrastructure it would look to cut red tape.

A spokesperson for the peak housing body said that red tape hinders the progress projects that are vital to Australian housing growth.

Infrastructure such as roads and bridges are vital to growing and maintaining housing supply.

Combined with the proposed initiatives to streamline project approvals through improved digital systems the reforms could assist the supply of new housing.

HIA Chief Executive Industry Policy, Kristin Brookfield, said that the HIA has long argued for the removal of red tape in planning approval processes.

“It is important that this has been recognised as a priority by the government,” she said.

“The overlap between Commonwealth, State and Local government in this space continues to frustrate many projects, adding time, confusion and cost.

“Demand for housing remains strong due to our ongoing population growth and any productivity reforms the government can implement to increase supply are welcome.

“Supporting the housing industry to deliver homes in a timely and affordable way is essential to address the home ownership aspirations of first home buyers, to create jobs and to support a healthy Australian economy.”

Ms Brookfield said there were many elements to the reforms that would assist with increasing housing supply.

“The inclusion of award reforms is also encouraging, simplifying and streamlining these still complex arrangements for businesses with employees is critical,” she said.

“HIA is confident that simplification can be made and this will lead to better employment outcomes.

“HIA looks forward to working with the government to examine other ways to increase productivity to support housing supply and to taking a leadership role in monitoring the pipeline of residential land and housing across the nation.

“There is certainly more that can be done through a national approach to productivity reforms.

“It’s important for all levels of Governments to look at ways they can support business, improve housing supply and recognise that home ownership matters,” Ms Brookfield concluded.