Tiny houses may not be the big answer

There has been significant growth in small house living, but that doesn’t mean Australia should “go big” on them in terms of overall housing policy.

Renters can be trapped for years in homes they can’t afford

After paying rent, more than half of low-income tenants don’t have enough left over for other essentials, and the latest evidence shows nearly half of them can be stuck in this situation for years.

Bigger on the inside?

Could Australia’s housing crisis be solved, not with a bold expensive plan, but with sneaky, under-the-radar remedies? Architectural researcher Alysia Bennett has been working on some strategies she thinks might work.

Lessons from abroad on affordable housing

Sydney’s housing, savings and public transport systems fail to offer its residents a competitive package of affordable housing, but lessons can be learned from Singapore and Hong Kong to create a better solution.

Addressing housing for older people

Australia faces a massive challenge delivering suitable housing for an ageing population, but what do older Australians actually want from their housing. And what can be done to ensure future supply matches demand?

Zero energy homes get zero interest from homebuyers

New home buyers care more about kitchen counter tops than easy opportunities for improved energy efficiency and thermal comfort.

Affordable rental housing policy not delivering for low income earners

A report by UNSW’s City Futures Research Centre finds planning policy is delivering micro-apartments for students and young professionals rather than affordable housing for low income families.

Sydney’s hidden housing problem

A new report released by the Sydney Policy Lab has found low income and vulnerable groups are being forced into informal and sometimes illegal housing arrangements, due to a lack of affordable alternatives.

There’s clear water between the parties on housing policy

Housing policy is a stark point of difference at this election. While the government took promising steps to set up social housing finance, it has yet to give any sign it will finish what it started.

Putting inheritance taxes back on the agenda

Reintroducing inheritance taxes would be an efficient and equitable way to address housing affordability, according to University of Queensland researchers.

A reset in housing policy is long overdue

The problems with housing systems in Australia and similar countries run deep. Solutions depend on a fundamental rethink of our approach to housing and its central place in our lives and the economy.

Removing broker commissions is a double-edged sword

The number of mortgage brokers providing a money-saving service to consumers could fall under changes recommended by the banking royal commission, according to Mark Humphrey-Jenner of UNSW Business School.