The economics of heritage laws and housing supply
A Centre for Independent Studies policy paper by economist Peter Tulip argues that state heritage laws, especially in NSW, create significant barriers to housing supply and worsen affordability issues.
How do heritage laws affect housing supply and building costs in NSW?
Builders and developers face project delays and additional costs when heritage restrictions limit renovation or demolition work, directly affecting profitability and timeline planning.
Key takeaways
- NSW heritage legislation creates obstacles for housing supply and affordability according to CIS policy paper.
- State heritage laws add regulatory barriers that builders must navigate on renovation and development projects.
- The paper argues current heritage protections are fundamentally flawed in their implementation.
- Heritage restrictions can limit builders' ability to demolish or significantly modify existing structures.
Related
Come walk a day in the shoes of small business
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) is asking government ministers and policymakers to spend a day working alongside a small business. It wants this to happen before they bring in more taxes, reporting requirements, compliance obligations or cost increases.
Why it matters: Small building trade businesses, including builders and subcontractors, carry the load of new taxes, paperwork and compliance rules. HIA is pushing for policymakers to understand that burden before adding more.
Government provides breathing space for builders and tradies on ATO credit card ban
The Federal Government has agreed to delay the ATO's proposed ban on credit card payments for tax debts. The Housing Industry Association welcomed the move, which gives builders and tradies more time to prepare.
Why it matters: Builders and tradies who pay ATO bills by credit card keep that option for now. This gives them time to adjust cash flow and find other ways to pay tax obligations.
Sydney takeaway restaurant operators in court
The Fair Work Ombudsman has started legal action against the operators of a takeaway restaurant in southern Sydney. The alleged breaches affected migrant workers. The article gives no further detail.
Why it matters: This case involves hospitality, not a trade, so it has little direct impact. Tradies who employ migrant workers can treat it as a reminder that the Fair Work Ombudsman enforces workplace laws.