The 2025 Federal Budget presents both opportunities and challenges for Australian property professionals. Key initiatives include an expanded Help to Buy scheme, allocating $800 million to assist first-home buyers with smaller deposits and shared equity, potentially stimulating demand, especially at the lower end of the market. However, agents should anticipate greater competition for eligible properties and advise clients on the program's nuances and limited availability.
A $21 billion commitment to boosting housing supply via the Housing Australia Future Fund offers developers significant opportunities, particularly in affordable housing. Navigating funding access and addressing planning delays will be crucial. Property managers may also see gains.
The Budget introduces a temporary ban on foreign investors purchasing existing dwellings, aiming to ease market pressure. This may lead to a short-term demand dampening, especially in inner-city and luxury areas. Agents should prepare for this potential sales decline, while recognising opportunities for local buyers.
Treasurer Chalmers acknowledged slower projected economic growth, advising caution due to rising interest rates and inflation impacting affordability and investor confidence. Property professionals should analyse these measures, adapt strategies, and be prepared for a potentially subdued market, considering the economic headwinds.