[Greens-Media] Housing crisis needs comprehensive response

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

Housing crisis needs comprehensive response
Tuesday 5th February 2008

The Australian Greens today remained reserved about the Government's
plans to tackle Australia's worsening housing crisis.

"In the past decade the median house price in Australia has increased
from four times average incomes to six to seven times average incomes,"
said Australian Greens spokesperson Senator Rachel Siewert.

"Coupled with today's interest rate bringing standard variable mortgage
rates closer to 9 per cent, we are seeing existing and potential home
buyers being priced out of the market. The savings plan announced
yesterday is as the Treasurer admits a 'modest' measure. It will not
solve the housing crisis for those in most need."

"We need measures to support not only those finding it difficult to buy
a house but those who cannot even afford to rent. We must tackle the
underlying structural issues of housing affordability in this country,"
she said. 

"There is a clear link between the lack of stable housing and the
perpetuation of intergenerational poverty. Supplying incentives for
young people to save better for their first home will certainly help
that demographic, but what about those without the means to save at
all?"

"We look forward to the Government implementing further measures to ease
Australia's housing crisis including a much needed significant increase
in investment in low-cost public and community housing and a review of
existing subsidies and incentives to ensure they improve access to
housing for low income households."

"We need a comprehensive, in-depth approach that tackles all levels of
this problem," she concluded.

For more information or comment call Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025
Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au