Liberals and Nationals join REIV to discuss tax system reform

Liberal Party Victoria

The Victorian Liberals and Nationals are continuing to consult widely with the community to develop a more efficient and fairer tax system for all Victorians.

Shadow Treasurer, Brad Rowswell, and Shadow Minister for Finance, Jess Wilson, today hosted a forum with the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) as part of the ‘Making Victoria’s Tax System Work’ discussion paper.

They heard directly about the impact of the Andrews Government’s nation-leading property taxes on Victoria’s housing sector. Victoria is the highest taxing state in Australia, contributing to one in four rental property owners selling at least one property over the past 12 months resulting in record low rental availability and median rents increasing faster than any other Australian capital city.

The forum discussed the need to reduce taxes that place upward pressure on rents and house prices, and instead explore options to reform our tax system to encourage investment, increase housing supply and support genuine pathways to home ownership.

Shadow Treasurer, Brad Rowswell, said: “Reforming Victoria’s tax system is key to growing our economy and easing cost of living pressures for households and families across the state.

“Instead of a tax system that makes life harder, the Victorian Liberals and Nationals will continue to work with the community to develop a fairer, more efficient tax system that encourages growth, investment and economic activity.

“I thank the REIV for their input and involvement in today’s forum and look forward to continuing this important discussion with Victorians across the state.”

Shadow Minister for Finance, Jess Wilson, said: “Property taxes are a key barrier to home ownership and a significant driver of increasing cost of living pressures for Victorian households and families.

“Under the Andrews Government, property taxes continue to rise which only places upward pressure on rents, house prices and pushes critical investment in new supply interstate.

“Victoria needs a tax system that encourages a greater supply of new housing and gives every Victorian the best opportunity to own a piece of our great state.”

All submissions will contribute to the Victorian Liberals and Nationals’ economic reform agenda, to be released in the lead up to the 2026 Victorian State Election.

All Victorians are encouraged to submit their views and ideas by 31 October 2023 at www.BetterTaxSystem.com.au

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