{
  "id": 150087,
  "title": "Australia news live: Pocock says falling house prices a ‘good thing for our country’; Labor expands solar discount to commercial buildings",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/04/australia-news-live-pocock-says-falling-house-prices-a-good-thing-for",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-04T23:13:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Guardian",
    "slug": "the-guardian",
    "url": "https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2026/aug/05/australia-news-live-jetstar-charge-overhead-luggage-labor-tax-coalition-economy-wednesday-ntwnfb"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Independent Senator David Pocock suggested that a housing correction would be advantageous for the country, stating that house prices have been rapidly increasing over the past two decades. He emphasized the importance of keeping house prices in check while wages rise, ensuring they remain affordable for families and communities in the future. Pocock also commended the Labor party's expansion of the negative gearing discount to commercial buildings, deeming it a positive step for protecting widows and divorcees. Meanwhile, Victoria's newly appointed Premier, Ben Carroll, provided his maiden broadcast interview with ABC Radio Melbourne, addressing his involvement in the recent leadership spill. He clarified that he did not have any role in the decision to replace Jacinta Allan as Premier, asserting that he only took the role after receiving strong support from his colleagues. Carroll also highlighted that artificial intelligence and data centers should not be left unchecked, emphasizing the need for worker protection and regulatory reform in these rapidly evolving industries.",
  "summary": "Follow today’s news live Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast Almost every house sold in first six months of the year has sold for a profit The vast majority of homeowners are selling their properties for more than they bought them for, even as house prices enter a tailspin, AAP reports. Continue reading...",
  "key_points": [
    "Independent Senator David Pocock believes falling house prices are beneficial for the country.",
    "Labor party extends negative gearing discount to commercial buildings.",
    "Victoria's Premier Ben Carroll denies involvement in leadership spill decision."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Pocock's comments on housing and support for Labor's solar discount expansion reflect a push for policies that prioritize affordability and worker protection over unchecked growth and profit.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}