Western Australian Treasurer Rita Saffioti has unveiled a state budget squarely aimed at tackling the housing crisis, with a suite of measures designed to increase supply, support renters, and stimulate construction. In an exclusive opinion piece for The West Australian, Saffioti outlined the government's strategy to address what she described as the most pressing issue facing the state.
Key Housing Initiatives
The budget includes a significant expansion of land releases across the Perth metropolitan area and regional centres, with a focus on fast-tracking approvals to bring more lots to market. The government will also introduce a new rental assistance program to help low-income households cope with rising rents, alongside incentives for developers to build more affordable homes.
Construction and Employment
Saffioti emphasized that the housing package is designed to create jobs and support the local construction industry, which has been under pressure from rising material costs and labour shortages. The budget allocates additional funding for training programs to boost the number of skilled workers in the sector.
“This is about giving Western Australians a fair go at owning a home or finding a secure rental,” Saffioti wrote. “We are taking decisive action to increase supply and ease pressure on the market.”
The Treasurer also flagged reforms to planning laws to streamline approvals for new developments, particularly in areas with high demand. The government will work closely with local councils to identify suitable sites for new housing projects.
Support for Renters
In addition to the rental assistance program, the budget includes measures to strengthen tenants' rights, including longer notice periods for evictions and caps on rent increases for low-income households. Saffioti acknowledged that many Western Australians are struggling with the cost of living and said the government is committed to providing relief.
The housing crisis has been a major issue in Western Australia, with prices and rents soaring in recent years. The state government has faced criticism for not doing enough to address the problem, but Saffioti said the budget represents a comprehensive response.
“We have listened to the community and we are delivering,” she said. “This budget is a turning point for housing in Western Australia.”
The full budget will be handed down next week, with further details expected on funding allocations and timelines for the various initiatives.
