Update The Federal budget and Housing Supply
The 2026 Federal Budget introduces major housing taxation changes. HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon has commented on the expected impacts for housing supply across Australia.
How will the 2026 Federal Budget affect housing supply in Australia?
Tax changes affecting housing supply could shift project pipelines and workload availability for trades businesses.
Key takeaways
- The 2026 Federal Budget introduces the biggest changes to housing taxation in decades.
- HIA's Chief Economist Tim Reardon has commented on the budget's housing supply impacts.
- The budget's implications for housing supply are becoming clearer this week.
- Structural tax changes are expected to significantly affect the housing sector.
Related
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.
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.