Albanese Govt Faces Pressure to Rethink Negative Gearing Amid Housing Crisis

September 25, 2024
Albanese Govt Faces Pressure to Rethink Negative Gearing Amid Housing Crisis
  • The Albanese government is under pressure from the Greens and crossbench politicians to reconsider negative gearing concessions, prompting a request to Treasury for expert advice on potential changes.

  • The Greens have indicated a willingness to support Labor's housing bill if negative gearing is reconsidered, while the Coalition remains opposed to any tax changes related to housing investments.

  • Negative gearing allows property investors to deduct losses from their taxable income, making it a contentious issue that has previously influenced election outcomes for Labor.

  • Despite the challenges, Minister Tanya Plibersek remains committed to fulfilling Labor's 2022 election promise and is actively engaging with senators from various parties.

  • The political landscape is marked by accusations between parties, with each blaming the other for obstructing progress on housing issues that impact everyday Australians.

  • Political analysis shows that even a small percentage of negatively geared taxpayers can represent over 14,500 voters in each electorate, highlighting the sensitivity of this issue for Labor.

  • This move is part of a broader strategy to address the housing crisis that is particularly affecting young home buyers, with the government seeking to scale back negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions.

  • Albanese has previously threatened a double dissolution over housing legislation, which ultimately passed after negotiations with the Greens.

  • The Prime Minister has expressed concern that changes to negative gearing could inadvertently reduce housing supply, conflicting with Labor's $32 billion housing agenda.

  • Labor MP Josh Burns has acknowledged significant housing affordability challenges in his community and expressed openness to exploring solutions.

  • The Albanese government is seen as having an instinct for moderation, which some critics perceive as timidity in addressing urgent issues like inflation and housing.

  • Overall, the current political climate is characterized by frustration, as various parties and the public feel stagnated and dissatisfied with the status quo.

Summary based on 48 sources


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