ACOSS supports calls by leading industry groups – the Housing Industry Association and the Australian Industry Group – for Government investment in social infrastructure to create jobs and provide an economic stimulus.

“This is a critical time for job protection and creation. ACOSS has been calling for the Government to invest in the construction of affordable housing and improve energy efficiency in low income housing,” Clare Martin, CEO, Australian Council of Social Service.

“The Government could kill two birds with one stone by financing the construction of 30,000 new social housing dwellings. This would alleviate the huge demand for affordable housing and also create jobs.”

A national program to improve energy efficiency for low income households would create thousands of green jobs and should start immediately through the expansion of existing retrofitting programs.

“We can climate-proof existing homes by upgrading household appliances and installing insulation. This program would boost local businesses,
minimise energy bills as well as lower emissions.

Expenditure on these programs would have significant multiplier effects across local trades and industries.

Media Contact: Clare Cameron – 0419 626 155