The 2026-27 ACT Budget has passed the Legislative Assembly, delivering major investments in housing, health and community services while providing targeted cost-of-living support to those who need it most.
The ACT is now the first jurisdiction in Australia to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers (owner-occupiers), removing a major barrier to home ownership and continuing the Territory’s nation-leading tax reform agenda.
The Budget delivers a generational investment in housing, the largest since self-government. It includes $364 million for the new Public Housing Pipeline Program to deliver 450 public homes, alongside an additional $183.4 million to strengthen repairs and maintenance.
The Budget provides a total of over $130 million in funding for the community sector, giving these important services greater certainty and capacity to support Canberrans.
The Government is also investing $1.34 billion over the next seven years to build the new Northside Hospital. This investment reflects the Government’s commitment to delivering a responsive health system that keeps pace with our growing city.
This is a responsible Budget that invests in Canberra’s future, provides targeted support where it is needed most, and continues to deliver against the Government’s fiscal strategy.
Quote attributable to Chief Minister, Andrew Barr:
“This Budget backs Canberra’s future with the largest investment in housing since self-government, record investment in public health infrastructure, and practical support for people facing cost-of-living pressures. We are removing one of the biggest barriers to home ownership by abolishing stamp duty for first home buyers. Combined with significant investment in new public housing, this reform will help more Canberrans put down roots in our city.
“At the same time, we’re investing in the essential services that a growing city needs, from community sector organisations through to the new Northside Hospital.
“This Budget reflects Labor’s priorities: more homes, better healthcare and a stronger economy.”
Quote attributable to Treasurer, Chris Steel:
“With the Budget passing we can now deliver the single largest investment in new housing since self-government, including 450 new public homes.
“The Government is delivering on our commitments to Canberrans, including building a new Northside Hospital to provide additional acute healthcare capacity.
“This Budget is measured and supports our strong economy. We have taken responsible steps to improve the Territory’s fiscal position while continuing to invest in the services and infrastructure our growing city needs.”
