In a recent statement on social media, the Member for Wallsend expressed her profound disappointment at the Greens and the Federal Coalition for voting down a crucial $10 billion affordable housing policy. The proposed policy, known as the Housing Australia Future Fund, aimed to inject funding for the construction of numerous social and affordable housing dwellings across the nation annually.
The Member for Wallsend criticized the Greens for their decision, accusing them of failing to match their progressive rhetoric with concrete actions. She emphasized that the rejection of the policy comes at a time when homelessness is on the rise, the Newcastle area’s housing waitlist has exceeded 1800 individuals, rental vacancies are at a record low, and average house prices in the Wallsend electorate remain unattainable for the average wage earner.
Highlighting the potential positive impact of the proposed policy, the Member for Wallsend asserted that it would have significantly improved the lives of thousands of vulnerable Australians each year. She expressed genuine outrage at the missed opportunity for progress.
Nevertheless, there is a glimmer of hope as the Commonwealth Government has allocated $2 billion to the States and Territories for the construction of new social and affordable housing stock. Of this amount, $610 million has been earmarked for New South Wales. The Wallsend MP has taken action by writing a letter to NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson MLC, urging her to ensure that the Wallsend electorate receives its fair share. With the community having already witnessed the sale of over 57 housing properties by the previous Liberal government, the MP believes it is crucial for the local area to benefit from this funding allocation.