Sprawl Isn't The Answer For Affordable Housing

"Recent media statements by Treasurer Peter Costello and Prime Minister John Howard relating to the problem have focused on increased land prices and the inflationary impacts of urban growth boundaries. But this debate has failed to take into account two other factors that are pushing home ownership out of reach — development opportunities in established suburbs, and property taxes."

"Recent reforms to industrial relations legislation mean the Victorian building industry is well placed to build a diverse range of homes at competitive prices. But the industry cannot influence the price of land — this can only be affected by a State Government that is prepared to provide the building industry with development opportunities in the inner suburbs — a move that may prove unpopular in the short term, especially with local government, but will boost housing affordability."