Following Labor’s re-election in the 2025 federal election, housing policy is once again a national priority. For Tasmania, this shift brings significant opportunities and challenges as federal initiatives begin to influence local housing supply, affordability, and market dynamics.
National Housing Accord: Boosting Supply at Scale
Labor has reaffirmed its commitment to the National Housing Accord, aiming to deliver 1.2 million new homes across Australia over five years from July 2024. This joint agreement between the federal government, states, territories, and industry is backed by incentives for states that exceed their housing targets. Importantly, it also includes funding for essential infrastructure to support future development.
Help to Buy: Lower Deposits, Greater Access
The Help to Buy scheme is designed to make home ownership more accessible for low- and middle-income Australians. With just a 2% deposit, eligible buyers can purchase a home with the federal government contributing up to 40% of the purchase price for new homes (or 30% for existing). This initiative aims to reduce the upfront cost barrier many aspiring homeowners face.
First Home Guarantee: More Inclusive Pathways
Labor’s expanded First Home Guarantee now includes joint applications from siblings and friends, and is open to buyers who haven’t owned a home in the past 10 years. Participants can enter the market with as little as a 5% deposit, without the need for Lenders Mortgage Insurance—a substantial cost saver.
Housing Australia Future Fund: Supporting Vulnerable Communities
At the heart of Labor’s long-term housing strategy is the Housing Australia Future Fund. This $10 billion initiative will deliver 30,000 new social and affordable rental homes over five years, with a strong focus on vulnerable Australians, including women and children fleeing domestic violence and older women at risk of homelessness.
What This Means for Tasmania
These national policies signal increased federal investment and strategic alignment with state-led housing delivery. For Tasmania, this means:
- Stronger support to scale up housing supply.
- Improved access to home ownership for first-home buyers and lower-income households.
- Opportunities to reform planning systems and boost infrastructure coordination.
- Enhanced ability to meet housing demand across both urban and regional areas.
As these initiatives roll out, Tasmania’s real estate sector is well-positioned to benefit—provided we continue to plan smartly, build sustainably, and prioritise affordability.
