A leading industry body is urging the ACT government to adopt a new digital accountability system designed to fast-track housing projects and secure long-term affordable rentals for the territory's essential workers.
The PRADS Proposal
The Property Council of Australia has called for the ACT to back the Progressive Residential Affordability Development Solution, known as PRADS. This system would directly link tax concessions for developers to the delivery of below-market rental homes for essential workers.
Property Council ACT and capital region executive director Ashlee Berry said the platform offers a transparent way to ensure community benefits from tax reforms. She emphasised that PRADS directly supports Chief Minister Andrew Barr's view that any changes to the Lease Variation Charge must deliver back for the community.
Addressing the Housing Crisis
The push comes as the government works on changes to the Lease Variation Charge system, which is designed to capture some of the increased land value when it is rezoned for more valuable uses.
Planning Minister Chris Steel recently instructed territory planners to prioritise incentives for more affordable and community housing. A Property Council analysis released in September revealed that even dual-income families are being priced out of buying a detached house in the ACT.
The issue is expected to be a key topic at the Property Council's housing summit at the University of Canberra on Thursday, November 20, 2025.
How the Digital System Works
Housing All Australians, the organisation behind PRADS, says the platform allows local councils and government to monitor affordable housing delivered with tax concessions in real time.
Founder Rob Pradolin, who will address the housing summit, stated that PRADS turns policy intent into measurable impact. The system creates a national digital register and can notify authorities if a dwelling is rented above the agreed affordable rate, as stipulated in a legal covenant.
Ms Berry confirmed the Property Council is ready to work with the ACT government to pilot the PRADS system. She argued that the current Lease Variation Charge model is stalling feasible housing projects and that Canberra needs a framework that supports delivery, not delay.
This digital solution promises a trustworthy system that attracts private investment while guaranteeing social outcomes for Canberra's essential workers.
