The stubborn refusal of the Liberal Government to make common sense changes to its Home Builder scheme is getting in the way of having more homes built.
Shadow Minister for Building and Construction Jen Butler said Michael Ferguson confirmed today that the government won’t budge on specifics of the scheme that exclude some builders.
“To boost the number of homes available to Tasmanians, we need every available qualified builder to be able to participate in the scheme. There aren’t enough builders to meet current demand.
“But the government is digging its heels in and refusing to allow recently qualified builders to build properties under the scheme.
“If you gained your building qualification on 3 June this year you can take part, but just one day later and the government will block you. That’s an arbitrary line in the sand that’s stopping builders getting work and delaying delivery of new homes.”
Ms Butler said the move had been criticised by the Housing Industry Association, along with the government’s reluctance to change a key definition in the scheme.
“In Tasmania, commencement is defined as the laying of foundation. Industry has made it clear to government it’s unrealistic to think that can be achieved within the three-month period allowed under the scheme.
“Financing, planning timeframes, land supply and title issues are all likely to cause delays, and the three-month cut off will leave some new home builders ineligible to receive the money.
“Far from getting people into new homes and supporting jobs in the building and construction sector, Michael Ferguson appears to be doing everything he can to get in the way.”
Jen Butler
Shadow Minister for Building and Construction
