Labor to aim to push through signature housing policy in final sitting week of 2024

The federal government will try once again to push through its housing laws in an effort to help address Australia’s housing crisis after the Greens rejected proposed legislation.

On Sunday, Senator Murray Watt said the government will aim to ambitiously pass about 30 pieces of legislation in its final sitting week for 2024, including the maligned Help to Buy shared ownership scheme which was road blocked by the Greens and Coalition.

Under the policy, 40,000 homeowners would be able to buy a property with the government owning an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new builds, and 30 per cent for existing homes.

If passed, the proposed legislation would likely unlock tens of thousands of new rental homes, providing greater options for struggling renters.

However, the Greens have said the policy could push up the cost of homes amid a housing supply and argue it would only help a small number of prospective homeowners.

In September, the minor party delayed a vote on the Bill in order to further negotiate, however it’s understood it has yet to reach a deal with Labor.

Housing minister Clare O’Neil called on the Greens to stop with the delaying tactics and work with the government on meaningful legislation.

“This continuous charade from the Greens has to stop,” Ms O’Neil said.

“Consistently throughout this parliament, the Greens have blocked and delayed action on the housing crisis, looking for every excuse to vote down legislation which is clearly good for the country.

“You get the distinct impression the Greens want Australians to continue to be in housing distress, so Adam Bandt can try to harvest those grievances into votes.

“It’s the crassest form of politics there is, straight out of the Peter Dutton playbook.”