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HIA News ·

Labor’s Absentee Owner Surcharge ‘cut’ won’t deliver affordable housing

The HIA says the Victorian Labor government's announced cut to the Absentee Owner Surcharge, limited to its preferred projects, won't deliver affordable housing. The article gives only the HIA's initial acknowledgement of the announcement.

Will the Victorian Absentee Owner Surcharge cut make housing more affordable?

Victorian builders and developers may see the surcharge relief apply only to selected projects. That could affect which developments get investor backing and how much work is available.

Key takeaways

  • The Victorian Labor government has announced a cut to the Absentee Owner Surcharge.
  • The cut applies only to the government's preferred projects, not all developments.
  • The HIA says the change won't deliver affordable housing.
  • The Absentee Owner Surcharge is a Victorian tax on foreign and absentee property owners.
VICbuildingregulatorytax

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ATO ramp up of small business debt collection

Master Builders Australia has published a news item saying the ATO is stepping up its debt collection against small businesses. The text provided gives no further detail on the measures, timing or amounts.

Why it matters: Builders and other trade businesses with outstanding tax debts may face firmer ATO collection action, which could strain cash flow. Details are not in the source text, so check the ATO or Master Builders directly.

taxbusinessregulatorybuilding
Build Australia ·

South Yarra apartment owners urge government commitments over building defects

South Yarra Square residents at 100 Commercial Road are asking Prahran seat candidates to commit to helping owners with legacy building defects. The article excerpt gives no details on the defects or the costs involved.

Why it matters: Builders and trades that work on apartment construction and rectification may see more scrutiny of defects and possibly new government support or rules. Defect claims could mean more rectification work and liability exposure.

VICbuildingregulatory
HIA News ·

WA's Residential Design Codes review announced

The WA Government has opened public comment on its review of the state's Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) from Friday 23 October 2026. The review follows extensive industry consultation.

Why it matters: Builders, carpenters and other residential trades in WA may face changes to design and approval rules that affect what they can build and how. Tradies can have a say during the public comment period.

WAbuildingregulatory