First home owners grant boost
14 October 2008
Statement by Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer
Master Builders Australia, the peak building and construction industry, today welcomed the significant boost in the first homeowners grant to provide a short term stimulus to the housing market.
Mr Wilhelm Harnisch, Master Builders Australia CEO said, “The tripling of the first homeowners grant for new homes will boost confidence and more importantly should significantly counter the forecast slow down in the domestic economy as a result of the global financial crisis.
He said, “Kick starting the housing sector is a proven success formula for stimulating economic growth because of the multiplier effects it has on the broader economy in terms of providing jobs as well as stimulating the manufacturing and retail sectors.
“Whilst the initiatives are welcome, builders are likely in the short term to continue to face problems securing finance, despite recent moves by the Government to boost liquidity.
Mr Harnisch, in welcoming the initiative in tripling the grant for new homes to $21,000 and doubling the grant for existing homes for contracts entered into by 30 June next year, called on local government to play their role in ensuring that the full extent of this important initiative is maximised.
“It is important that local governments play their role in fast tracking approvals and removing blockages.
“Unnecessary delays and onerous requirements can only negatively impact on housing affordability.
“It would be regretful if the Government’s initiative was to be stymied by unnecessary local government delays,” Mr Harnisch concluded.
For further information contact: Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer (02) 6202 8888 Mob. 0402 039 039.
