Hunter Joint Organisation warns against financial penalties for councils over housing targets

Newy 87.8 FM – The Hunter Joint Organisation has raised concerns about an Australian Government Productivity Commission interim report that suggests a "carrot and stick" approach which could financially penalise local governments if housing targets are not met.

The organisation says its member councils across the Hunter are working hard to enable housing growth, but argues that penalising them for broader market factors outside their control will not build more homes.

According to the Hunter Joint Organisation, whether new homes are actually built depends on an entire housing system, driven by complex pressures well outside the direct control of local government.

"Stripping funding from communities through 'sticks' will only hurt local services without laying a single brick," the organisation said in its statement.

The comments come in response to the Productivity Commission's interim report, which canvasses financial measures tied to local government performance on housing targets.

The Hunter Joint Organisation represents member councils across the Hunter region.

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