Story perspectives

Australia's Housing Crisis Deepens Amid Rising Homelessness

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Australia's housing crisis is deepening as billions are allocated to tax breaks for property investors, neglecting social housing and homelessness support.
Research by the Australian Council of Social Service shows social housing has decreased to 3.6% of homes, down from 5.7% in the 1990s.
The median rent has risen by 43% over five years, leading households to spend a third of their income on rent.
Homelessness has increased from 22% in 2019 to 27% in 2025, prompting advocates to call for a shift in funding to community housing initiatives.

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Story summary

Australia's housing crisis is deepening as billions are allocated to tax breaks for property investors, neglecting social housing and homelessness support.
Research by the Australian Council of Social Service shows social housing has decreased to 3.6% of homes, down from 5.7% in the 1990s.
The median rent has risen by 43% over five years, leading households to spend a third of their income on rent.
Homelessness has increased from 22% in 2019 to 27% in 2025, prompting advocates to call for a shift in funding to community housing initiatives.