Home builders and buyers are set to get some welcome relief, with the Liberal Party confirming its intention to match the federal government's announcement to extend building start dates for the HomeBuilder program.
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On Saturday, the Federal Government announced the HomeBuilder construction deadline would extend from six to 18 months due to increased pressure on the industry.
Premier Peter Gutwein said that alongside the good news, a re-elected Liberal government would boost the First Home Owners Grant from $20,000 to $30,000, backdated to 31 March 2021.
"Our building market is red hot at the moment, our builders, plumbers, electricians - they are all flat out which is exactly what HomeBuilder was meant to do," he said.
"What this [increasing the grant] will do is keep our strong pipeline of building work moving forward.
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"We've got a wall of work which is built up, but in terms of those people that want to get into their first home, there's never been a better time in Tasmania than now to do so."
The Property Council welcomed the increase to funding.
Tasmanian executive director Rebecca Ellston said it would supercharge the capacity of younger Tasmanians trying to break into the housing market.
"We know that younger Tasmanians in particular are facing big challenges in entering the housing market with the median dwelling value in Tasmania rising 12.5 per cent over the past 12 months alone. An increase to the First Home Owners Grant will go a long way in helping first home owners secure a home," she said.
"It is absolutely vital that we increase our housing stock and this policy will give more Tasmanians the incentive they need to build or buy their dream home."
"We look forward to seeing other parties and candidates come to the table with similar commitments to increase opportunities for Tasmanians and boost the Tasmanian property industry."
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