Audit must not slow delivery of new homes under HAFF

The Housing Industry Association (HIA) welcomes the announcement of an audit into the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) but cautioned that the review should not delay or derail the urgent task of increasing Australia’s housing supply, HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin said today.

“The audit by the Australian National Audit Office is a necessary step to ensure the fund is operating effectively and delivering value for taxpayers but Australia cannot afford to lose momentum on building new homes.

“Oversight and transparency are essential, but the audit must not become another hurdle in getting homes built.

“The HAFF was established to boost social and affordable housing supply and every delay in the system means more Australians are waiting longer to get into or own a home,” said Ms Martin.

“HIA members continue to report that navigating the HAFF has been difficult, with overly complex processes and limited clarity about funding pathways.

“We know from our members that dealing with the HAFF can be challenging. The process is complicated, the timelines are slow, and it’s not always clear how projects can move forward.

“If the audit identifies problems, they should absolutely be fixed. But it’s critical this process doesn’t stall the progress already being made.

“The HAFF was established to help deliver 55,000 new social and affordable homes and is part of the government’s broader ambition to build 1.2 million homes over the next five years.

“This audit should be used as an opportunity to improve how the fund operates, not to pause its delivery,” Ms Martin said.

“At a time when housing affordability and supply are at crisis levels, the focus must stay firmly on getting more homes built and supporting the builders and community housing providers who can deliver them.

“HIA stands ready to work with Housing Australia, Treasury and the government to streamline processes and make the system more responsive.

“We need every part of the housing system pulling in the same direction. Fix what isn’t working, but don’t stop the work that’s already underway to increase supply,” concluded Ms Martin.