Builders bring productivity and tax concerns to Canberra
The HIA has taken housing productivity and discretionary trust tax concerns to Canberra policymakers. They warn proposed trust tax changes could hamper home building efforts.
How will proposed discretionary trust tax changes affect my building business?
Builders and contractors operating through discretionary trusts face potential tax changes that could affect business structure and profitability, hitting small building firms hardest.
Key takeaways
- HIA is lobbying Canberra to address barriers holding back housing productivity.
- Proposed tax changes to discretionary trusts could make it harder to build more homes.
- Many small building businesses operate through discretionary trusts, making this a direct concern.
- No specific policy outcomes or timelines were announced from the HIA's engagement.
Related
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Why it matters: Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and all trade contractors who currently pass card fees to customers. They must absorb or restructure costs before October 2026.
Minimum tax on discretionary trusts
The Housing Industry Association has come out against a proposed minimum tax on discretionary trusts and the related Excluded Election Trust regime. No further detail on the policy mechanics is provided in the article.
Why it matters: Builders and trade contractors who operate through discretionary trusts could face higher tax bills if this policy proceeds, affecting business structure decisions.
Advancing the industry's case in Canberra
HIA held a major advocacy week in Canberra covering workforce, taxation and migration policy. Members were brought directly into discussions with political leaders on key industry issues.
Why it matters: Builders and associated trades could see changes to workforce supply, tax settings and migration rules that directly affect hiring and business costs.