Master Builders calls on Parliament to fix the Federal Budget’s housing policies

29 May 2026

Master Builders is urging the Federal Parliament to amend the Budget legislation to deliver a significant increase in housing supply and construction activity.

Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said today that the proposed tax hikes are contrary to the Government’s election mandate to build more homes.

“If we’re serious about improving affordability, we need to turbocharge supply and remove the barriers to building. Right now, those barriers are rising, not falling.

“On one hand, construction will be hit hard by the proposed tax hikes on private investment resulting in less housing supply and affordability.

“And on the other, the 98 per cent of the industry who are small businesses will be negatively affected by the tax increases on capital gains and trusts. Genuine consultation must occur to ensure these serious impacts on small business are addressed.

“Should the tax hikes proceed, it ultimately means fewer homes and higher costs for renters and buyers.

“The Parliament must act and amend the legislation to incentivise housing investment. Without the tax increases and with stronger investment in supply‑boosting measures, the Budget could have delivered a significant increase in housing supply, but it fell short.

Independent modelling released today shows that over the next four years the current Federal Budget proposals will cause new housing supply to fall by over 8,700 and rents to increase by up to $9 per week.

The modelling also found that the Budget measures will reduce GDP by $864 million and construction jobs by more than 3,800.

Master Builders Australia’s federal budget roadmap including policies that should be prioritised can be found here.

Media contact: Dylan Hafey, Media Advisor

0497 330 064 | dylan.hafey@masterbuilders.com.au