Industry says audit should "improve how the fund operates, not pause its delivery"
Maintaining momentum in boosting Australia’s housing supply must remain the priority, with the Housing Industry Association (HIA) emphasising that the newly announced audit of the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) should not become a barrier to building new homes.
“Oversight and transparency are essential, but the audit must not become another hurdle in getting homes built,” said Jocelyn Martin (pictured top), HIA managing director. “The HAFF was established to boost social and affordable housing supply, and every delay in the system means more Australians are waiting longer to get into or own a home.”
According to Martin, HIA members have faced challenges with the HAFF’s procedures. “We know from our members that dealing with the HAFF can be challenging,” she said. “The process is complicated, the timelines are slow, and it’s not always clear how projects can move forward.
“If the audit identifies problems, they should absolutely be fixed. But it’s critical this process doesn’t stall the progress already being made.”
The HAFF was created to support the delivery of 55,000 new social and affordable homes, contributing to the government’s broader aim to build 1.2 million homes over five years. The Australian National Audit Office is set to examine the HAFF’s effectiveness and value for taxpayers.
The Albanese government’s $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund has been subjected to an official audit as the fund forks out more than $1 million for “affordable” homes.https://t.co/O5nm3IpfXP
— Sky News Australia (@SkyNewsAust) October 28, 2025
“This audit should be used as an opportunity to improve how the fund operates, not to pause its delivery,” Martin said.
She also pointed out the importance of maintaining focus on increasing housing supply and supporting those involved in construction and community housing.
“At a time when housing affordability and supply are at crisis levels, the focus must stay firmly on getting more homes built and supporting the builders and community housing providers who can deliver them,” Martin said.
The HIA has expressed its willingness to collaborate with Housing Australia, Treasury and government to streamline processes and improve system responsiveness.
“We need every part of the housing system pulling in the same direction,” Martin said. “Fix what isn’t working, but don’t stop the work that’s already underway to increase supply.”
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