Recent Publications

No. 133: The dynamics of housing affordability: movements in and out of housing affordability stress 2001-2006

This project investigates the dynamics of housing affordability in Australia over the period 2001–06 by tracking the housing affordability trajectories of a nationally representative sample of Australians across a period of six years, using the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey. This project provides important information for the formulation and design of policies that aim to improve housing affordability in Australia.

Issue 115: What motivates households to invest in the private rental market?

The perceptions of property as a low-risk investment, guaranteed to yield long-term capital gains, are key motivators for small-scale private rental investors. However, not all motivating factors are financial. Personal goals and personal or family circumstances also play a key part in investment decisions.

No. 132: Housing wealth and consumer spending

This project has examined the effects of increases in housing wealth brought about by increases in house prices on general consumption spending in Australia. The study, the first of its kind in Australia, complements a growing body of international research in this field. The results presented question the accuracy of the assertion that the relationship between house prices and general consumption spending in the economy is at its strongest among older home owners.

Issue 114: What can be done to improve employment outcomes among people receiving housing assistance?

Improving employment of housing assistance recipients will require removing financial disincentives to work in public housing rent and income eligibility policies, retaining security of tenure so that tenants can stabilise their health and build skills, and public housing that is better located to employment opportunities.