NSW politicians unite over failing affordable housing policy

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 05:24 · Archive

Politicians from rival parties in New South Wales have called for the government to overhaul its affordable housing definition and policy.

Politicians from across New South Wales have put aside their differences to demand the state government overhaul its affordable housing policy, which they say has failed to meet existing need.

Under the current definition, affordable housing refers to properties where rent is charged at less than 80 per cent of market value. Advocates and politicians calling for change say this definition should instead require rent to cost no more than 30 per cent of a person's income. Independent MP Alex Greenwich said affordable housing across Sydney was being replaced with luxury developments containing fewer cheaper units, describing this as a tokenistic gesture. Liberal MP Chris Rath said that under the current model there is not a single local government area in New South Wales that is affordable for people earning £60,400 per year or less at 80 per cent market rent.

Greens MP Jenny Leong said affordable units needed to be delivered permanently rather than to the current 15-year time limit. The definition of affordability advocated by organisations like Affordable Forever has been adopted by the Inner West and City of Sydney councils.

How it is being reported

• Political rivals team up for affordable housing fightRepresentatives from across politics have called for the government to do more to deliver on affordable housing, arguing that the current model is not working.Perth Now · 9 Oct, 04:52
• Political rivals team up for affordable housing fightRepresentatives from across politics have called for the government to do more to deliver on affordable housing, arguing that the current model is not working.The West Australian · 9 Oct, 04:52

In this story: New South Wales · Alex Greenwich · Jenny Leong · Chris Rath · Sydney · Homes NSW · Affordable Forever

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