Society backs calls to pass Budget tax reforms

The St Vincent de Paul Society has backed calls for the Federal Parliament to pass the housing tax reforms announced in the 2026–27 Budget, saying the changes are an important step towards a fairer housing system. The Society has welcomed the Government’s reforms to capital gains tax (CGT) and negative gearing, describing them as a meaningful move to improve fairness in Australia’s housing system. ​

The Society’s National President Mark Gaetani said the proposed changes would help rebalance the system and reduce some of the structural pressures that have locked too many Australians out of secure and affordable housing. ​

“The Society backs the call from National Shelter, Everybody’s Home, ACOSS and Better Renting for Parliament to pass these reforms without delay,” Mr Gaetani said.

“For too long, tax settings have disproportionately favoured property investors over first home buyers and low-income renters. Housing should be treated first and foremost as a basic human right, not primarily a vehicle for wealth accumulation.” 

The Society said the case for reform is clear. Only 1 in 8 investor loans goes to new construction, while the rest flow into existing properties, adding pressure to house prices. Home prices have also risen three times faster than wages since the overly generous 50% CGT discount began in 1999, deepening the divide between people who own housing assets and those trying to enter the market.

Mr Gaetani said these figures show why the current system is not delivering the homes Australia needs.

“When tax breaks mainly encourage investors to buy existing homes instead of building new ones, the result is higher prices and fewer pathways into home ownership for everyday Australians,” he said.

“Investors are buying twice as many properties as first home buyers. That is not a level playing field, and it is one reason more people are being pushed into long-term renting and housing stress.”

The St Vincent de Paul Society of Australia has consistently advocated for housing affordability measures, including reducing the 50% CGT discount, recognising housing as a human right, and increasing support for affordable and social housing.

The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia has around 40,000 Members and volunteers who work hard to assist people in need and to combat social injustice across Australia. Internationally, the Society operates in 153 countries and has over 800,000 members.

Media contact: media@svdp.org.au or 0475 068 209