A group managing a campaign to end homelessness says the federal government has a golden opportunity to capitalise on the stimulatory effect of homebuilder by extending the program to social and affordable housing.
The group, Everybody’s Home, says this would ease the risk of homelessness as programs such as JobKeeper tail off.
Surveys show surging demand for the $25,000 grant, which means the cost to government has increased from $688m to more than $2.5 billion, fuelling more than $30 billion in direct conÂstruction and housing investment.
Deputy mayor of Logan Jon Raven has said the city is primed to benefit from the economic advantages that come with a housing boom.
He says many developers were rushing to keep up with increased demand.
Everybody’s Home national spokesperson Kate Colvin said the stimulus impact of homebuilder is great news for construction.
“If we directed some of this to social housing, it would be even more powerful, because we could ease the threat of homelessness for those families left behind by the current housing boom.
“Every economist worth their salt agrees taxpayers receive a compelling return on their dollar when it is invested in social housing. We can create jobs, ease homelessness and reduce the demand on other government services such as hospitals and homeless shelters.
“The Federal Government can get maximum impact from every dollar they spend on social housing by encouraging the states to match their contribution and partner with them in social housing growth.
“Having a roof over your head is the foundation stone for re-entering the workforce or getting an education.
“The people who need homes are often women and children escaping family violence or people recovering from an unexpected illness or trauma.
“As the success of homebuilder shows, there are enormous economic benefits to stimulating the construction sector. By expanding this stimulus to social housing, we can also achieve a powerful social dividend.”
