The ACT government is facing renewed pressure to significantly increase its public housing targets, following the release of a legislative inquiry report that highlights a growing crisis in affordable housing availability across Canberra.
Inquiry Findings Highlight Shortfall
The inquiry, conducted by the ACT Legislative Assembly's Standing Committee on Housing and Homelessness, found that current targets are insufficient to meet the needs of low-income residents. The report recommends that the government aim to deliver at least 1,000 additional public housing properties over the next five years, a substantial increase from the existing goal of 600.
Committee chair and Labor MLA, John Smith, said the evidence presented during hearings made it clear that more action is needed. 'We heard from numerous community organisations and individuals who are struggling to find safe and affordable housing,' he stated. 'The current targets simply do not reflect the scale of the problem.'
Waiting Lists at Record Levels
The report notes that the public housing waiting list in the ACT has reached record levels, with over 3,000 households currently waiting for a property. The average wait time has also increased, with some applicants waiting more than two years for accommodation.
Community housing providers have welcomed the recommendation, arguing that the government must invest more in social housing to prevent homelessness. 'This is a critical step towards ensuring that every Canberran has a place to call home,' said Sarah Jones, CEO of Community Housing Canberra.
Government Response
In response to the report, the ACT government has indicated it will consider the recommendations carefully. A spokesperson for the Minister for Housing said the government has already committed to a significant build program, but acknowledged that more may be needed. 'We are reviewing the inquiry's findings and will respond in due course,' the spokesperson said.
The government is also exploring alternative models, such as public-private partnerships and community housing projects, to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes.
Community Reactions
Advocacy groups have expressed cautious optimism but stress that the government must act swiftly. 'We need concrete commitments, not just reviews,' said Mark Brown from the ACT Homelessness Network. 'The situation is urgent, and every month of delay means more families are left without a safe place to live.'
The opposition has also weighed in, criticising the government for what they describe as a slow response to the housing crisis. Shadow Minister for Housing, Emily White, called for an immediate increase in funding for public housing construction.
The report comes amid broader concerns about housing affordability in the ACT, where rising rents and property prices have pushed many low-income earners out of the market. The inquiry's recommendations are expected to be debated in the Legislative Assembly in the coming weeks.
