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The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has released its latest building activity data revealing a “needs improvement report card” for the National Housing Accord.
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said: “We now know that Australia fell short of its target by 60,971 new houses during the Housing Accord’s first year, which does not meet the aspirations set out in the Accord.”
“The building and construction industry is ready to deliver, however government needs to hand them the tools to lift productivity.”
The Housing Accord set a target of 240,000 new homes every year to ensure the construction of 1.2 million over the next five years.
Shane Garrett, Chief Economist, Master Builders Australia, said that this shortfall means we now need to deliver an average of 255,300 new homes per year over the remaining four years of the Accord – a significantly higher bar than before.
“New home building finished 2024-25 on a weak note, with dwelling commencements sagging by 4.4 per cent during the June 2025 quarter.
“There was a 6.4 per cent decline in detached house starts, which recorded their weakest quarter since March 2024, and higher density home commencements declined by 1.7 per cent during the June 2025 quarter,” said Mr Garrett.
Master Builders CEO Denita Wawn added the challenges in the industry must be addressed before Australia falls further behind.
“We appreciate the work already completed and call on the government to build on this by fast-tracking reforms that cut red tape and boost housing supply.”
“Accelerating approvals, streamlining regulation, addressing skill shortages, and supporting private investment will give industry the certainty to get projects moving,” said Ms Wawn.
Media contact: Dee Zegarac, National Director, External Affairs & Engagement
0400 493 071 | dee.zegarac@masterbuilders.com.au