'Got our own plans': treasurer demolishes housing push

The Australian Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, has dismissed calls from the country's peak union body, the ACTU, for a significant increase in public housing. The ACTU has proposed that one in ten new homes should be public housing, up from the current rate of one in 50. The union argues that such a target would lead to increased security for people, reduce homelessness and limit excessive rent increases.

However, Treasurer Chalmers stated that the government already has plans to ensure a portion of new homes are social and affordable. ACTU President Michele O'Neil countered that the government's efforts are not sufficient and that public funding is often directed towards affordable housing that is out of reach for working people.

Deputy opposition leader Jane Hume criticized the ACTU's proposal, stating it is not within their mandate. O'Neil emphasized that housing should be a right, not a privilege, and questioned whether the $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund is the best use of funds.