Following the release of the Federal Budget 2025-26, please attribute the following comments to Kate Whittle, General Manager, Advocacy and External Affairs:
On the Budget’s Positive Steps
“We welcome the Albanese Government’s continued focus on housing supply, including funding for modern construction methods to build homes faster. Innovation is key to solving this crisis, and these investments will help.”
“The expansion of Help to Buy is a positive move—adjusting income and price caps means more young people and first-home buyers can access support. But with only 40,000 spots, demand will far outstrip supply. We need more pathways to homeownership, alongside secure rentals.”
“The $2.5 million boost for Safe Places emergency housing is critical—women and children fleeing violence deserve safety. We commend this commitment and urge further investment in long-term affordable housing solutions for women and gender diverse people to make up a healthy housing system”.
On Rental Affordability & Cost-of-Living Relief
“Tax cuts will put money back in people’s pockets, and that’s important—especially for women and young people facing soaring rents. But without more affordable housing, short-term relief won’t solve long-term insecurity.”
“Commonwealth Rent Assistance increases are helping, but rental stress remains at record highs. We need stronger protections for renters and a major boost to social and affordable housing to ease the pressure.”
Where More Action Is Needed
“While this budget makes progress, Australia still lacks a comprehensive National Housing and Homelessness Plan—one that guarantees affordable homes for women, young people, and gender-diverse Australians, particularly in our regions.”
“We’re calling for 20,000 new social and affordable homes, 30% of them in regional areas, and sustained funding for housing support services. Safe housing is the foundation for equality—and it must be a bipartisan priority.”
Final Comment
“This budget takes some positive steps, but the housing crisis demands bolder solutions. YWCA Australia looks forward to working with all parties to ensure every woman, young person, and gender-diverse Australian has a safe, affordable place to call home.”
For more information about YWCA’s Advocacy moving the dial towards Safe Homes and Equal Futures for women, gender diverse people and their families, check out our Federal Election campaign website.
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