Detached house approvals 7 per cent higher in 2025/26
Detached house building approvals rose 7% in 2025/26, with June 2026 reaching the highest monthly level since August 2021, according to HIA data.
Detached house approvals 7% higher in 2025/26, with June 2026 the highest monthly level since August 2021.
Building approvals for new houses in the month of June 2026 increased to its highest level since August 2021 - Tim Reardon, HIA Chief Economist
Are detached house building approvals finally recovering in 2025/26?
Builders and associated trades like plumbers, electricians, and carpenters can expect increased new home project pipelines as approvals trend upward.
Key takeaways
- Detached house approvals rose 7% across the 2025/26 financial year.
- June 2026 recorded the highest monthly approvals since August 2021.
- The trend signals a growing pipeline of new home projects for trade contractors.
- HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon flagged the result as a significant milestone.
Related
Inquiry into the financial and operational performance of TasWater
HIA's Tasmanian Executive Director Benjamin Price addressed the Public Accounts Committee regarding TasWater's financial and operational performance. The statement covers issues relevant to the water utility's impact on the building and construction industry in Tasmania.
Why it matters: Builders and plumbers in Tasmania may be affected by TasWater's performance, including connection delays, infrastructure capacity, and cost impacts on new developments.
Brick supply and allocation update
HIA is working with government and manufacturers on brick supply and allocation issues affecting home building in WA. No specific outcomes or changes have been announced yet.
Why it matters: Builders in WA may face ongoing project delays due to brick shortages. Supply constraints can affect scheduling, contract timelines, and cash flow.
Preparing for the card surcharge ban
From 1 October 2026, card surcharges will be banned in Australia. Builders, contractors and suppliers must update their pricing, contracts and payment systems before the deadline.
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.