Property groups call for better oversight of affordable housing promises

At a time when more new developments with affordable housing components are getting the green light than ever before, property industry leaders are saying it’s increasingly important that these commitments are tracked – and met. Amid renewed public attention over whether developers are meeting affordable housing obligations attached to their projects, the industry has voiced its support for a centralised database to create clarity and accountability among the sector. Property leaders have voiced support for a national system to track affordable housing commitments. Picture: GettyAffordable rental housing is generally offered below the usual market rent to eligible households on low or moderate incomes or to key workers in certain fields. It differs from social housing, which is intended for people with more significant housing needs and is subject to separate eligibility and tenancy arrangements. There are a number of ways that affordable housing is provided in Australia. One of those is to offer incentives or planning approval to developers that dedicate a portion of a development’s residences to being provided as affordable housing, often for a fixed period of time. But when it c...