ALGA today welcomed the Coalition’s pledge to invest $5 billion in enabling infrastructure through a new Housing Infrastructure Programme to unlock up to 500,000 new homes across Australia.
President Mayor Matt Burnett said ALGA had been calling for this extra funding, which is vital for unlocking new housing developments across the country.
“Our latest research shows building the enabling – or trunk – infrastructure to cover the gap between current housing constructions and the nation’s ambitious housing target will cost at least $5.7 billion,” Mayor Burnett said.
“This is before we invest in the libraries, pools, recreation centres and bike paths which are vital for creating liveable communities.
“AGLA’s research also shows 40 per cent of Australian councils have cut back on new infrastructure developments because of inadequate trunk infrastructure funding.
“We are delighted the Coalition has responded to our call for increased investment in enabling infrastructure, that will make a significant contribution towards addressing Australia’s housing crisis.”
Mayor Burnett said it was important for the new infrastructure funding to be made available to all of Australia’s 537 councils.
“We understand the proposed new program is focussed on greenfield developments, but all councils are facing challenges building and upgrading local infrastructure to support new housing,” Mayor Burnett said.