I know the issue of housing affordability matters deeply to families in our community. I regularly speak with local parents and grandparents who worry their children and grandchildren will not be able to buy a home close to the community they grew up in.
They worry that even if young people work hard, save and do everything right, they may still be forced to move further away from their relatives and support networks.
This is not fair and it’s not the future we want for North West Sydney, or for our country. Young Australians should be able to aspire to buy a place of their own in the community they call home.
That is why this Budget takes vital steps to help level the playing field for first home buyers, build more homes and make Australia’s housing system fairer for all. I want to be clear, existing negative gearing arrangements will be grandfathered.
This means if you already own an investment property, nothing changes for you. Negative gearing will also continue to be available for investors who buy newly built homes, ensuring investment adds to housing supply.
In addition, we’re investing a further $2B in housing-enabling infrastructure, helping unlock the roads, water, power, parks, sewerage and local services needed in growing communities like ours.
Global uncertainty and the conflict in the Middle East is putting additional pressure on the cost of living, which is why this
Budget delivers more relief, including further tax cuts for every Australian taxpayer, a new $1,000 instant tax deduction and cheaper medicines.
We’re strengthening Medicare by making free Urgent Care Clinics, like our local clinic at Rouse Hill, a permanent part of the health system. Because you should be able to see a doctor without worrying about the cost.
There is more work to do, but this responsible Budget is an important step towards a fairer future, where our young people can work hard, save and attain a place of their own in the community they love – because that’s what the Australian dream is all about.
Michelle Rowland MP is the Federal Member for Greenway and Attorney-General of Australia. If you need assistance with any Federal issue, you can contact Michelle by phone on 02 9671 4780 or by email at [email protected]
