Soaring government spending on housing yet to ease rental crisis

A new report by Anglicare Australia shows rental affordability for people on low incomes is the worst it's ever been, despite soaring government spending on housing.

Houses for lease advertised in the window of a real estate agent. Credit: AAP

Key Points

• Surveying more than 45,000 rental listings available in March, the Rental Affordability Snapshot for 2024 concludes affordability is the worst it's ever been.
• The report found the average rent is now $200 more per week than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
• National Shelter has joined an alliance of property, housing and social services organisations calling for the government to double its Housing Australia Future Fund commitment. They're asking for a commitment of 20 billion dollars in the upcoming federal budget, to help meet the pledged goal of 1.2 million new homes by 2029.

Advocates across the housing sector say governments need to take a hands-on approach and start funding long-term solutions - as well as looking for the "quick wins".

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