Moving to a digital world post-COVID
A coalition of banking and real estate associations are calling for the removal of “red tape” in the property sector to streamline lending processes by digitising a range of banking, mortgage and finance services.
Banking and real estate institutions are urging the government to make temporary electronic transacting of mortgages permanent to allow for more efficient and streamlined processes in the industry. The sector was quick to implement changes in line with coronavirus social distancing that included digitising many traditionally paper-based processes, but without changes to legislation these aren’t set to stay.
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According to the Australian Banking Association allowing lending institutions to offer more digital and paperless mortgages as a normal business practice will make them more economically efficient, as well as more efficient for the businesses and people involved. With the real estate sector hit hard by coronavirus restrictions, the streamlining of traditionally time-consuming processes could help promote growth and activity for the industry.
A range of temporary digitised processes that included electronic mortgage applications, video call document witnessing and electronically signed documents were introduced through emergency government regulations and implemented by lenders in response to the coronavirus lockdown. These measures served to streamline access to banking, mortgage and finance services, and lending institutions are keen for these more efficient processes to become the new norm.
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Who is calling for digital reform?
An established coalition that includes the Australian Banking Association, the Business Council of Australia, the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Council of Small Business Organisations, the Financial Services Council, the Real Estate Institute of NSW and the Australian Property Institute have suggested that the temporary measures introduced during the coronavirus pandemic should be made more permanent.
Australian Banking Association CEO Anna Bligh says that while both state and federal governments were to be commended on their response to the coronavirus pandemic, and for facilitating temporary electronic transactions, the changes needed to be permanent to lower costs and reduce hassle associated with the transacting and mortgage processes.
“Today we’re calling on both Federal and State Governments to make these changes permanent in order to keep the ease, keep the lower cost and reduce the hassle of transactions which rely on wet signatures and paper documents,” Ms Bligh said.
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What does the future of mortgages look like?
The proposal from the coalition has suggested a range of permanent changes to increase efficiency and digitisation.
Some of these suggested changes are related to electronic transactions, avoiding the need for paper signatures and for documents to be witnessed in person. The key changes suggested in relation to electronic transactions are:
- Allowing deeds to be created and signed electronically.
- Accepting electronic signatures for a wider range of legal and business documents, that includes guarantees, statutory declarations and trust deeds.
- Allowing the remote witnessing of documents to occur using video call software and electronic signatures and removing the requirement for witnessing when signing deeds.
Other changes relate to the processing of mortgage applications electronically, again by removing the need for paper signatures and for documents to be witnessed in person. The key changes suggested in relation to digital, paperless mortgages are:
- Forgoing the requirement for the counter-mortgage to be signed by both mortgagor and mortgagee.
- Forgoing the requirement for signatures on mortgage documents to be witnessed.
What changes have already been made?
In some state’s changes are already being implemented to move towards more digitisation of transactions and mortgages, largely in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
In New South Wales emergency regulations have been passed allowing the witnessing of documents to occur remotely and they have passed legislation enabling broader reforms including the introduction of electronic deeds.
Both Victoria and Queensland have also passed emergency regulations that allow for the electronic signing of documents and remote witnessing of all documents, including deeds and mortgages.
South Australia and Tasmania have similarly passed emergency legislation relating to electronic transactions but are yet to implement any changes to regulations.
Despite this, all states are yet to make any permanent changes and all temporary measures are set to expire between October and November 2020. Many states do have versions of an Electronic Transactions Act, which generally states that transactions are not invalid simply because they are conducted electronically, but common state law often also stipulates that deeds and mortgages must be made in writing, on paper.
Land registrars have also been temporarily been allowed electronic signing and lodgement of mortgage documents in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.
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Sources:
Electronic transactions and mortgages should be here to stay
Words by Danielle Austin
You don’t need to leave your house to get an eChoice home loan consultation. As always we will provide you with the digital option of discussing your options over the phone – we’re here to make your home loan journey easier.
Perth is known for being smaller and more isolated than Australia’s other capital cities. But what it lacks in size and accessibility, it more than makes up for in liveability, friendly people and unbeatable value. This West Coast gem is popular with those who want to live the beach lifestyle, but don’t want to pay a premium for it.
But, where are the best areas to live and buy in Perth, to really make the most of all it has to offer? Well, that depends on what qualities are important to you – whether that’s price, location, lifestyle or amenities. Here, we’ve put together a guide to Perth’s most popular suburbs based on a few different metrics, to help you determine where is best for you.
Is it nice to live in Perth?
It’s often been said that if you find yourself in a relationship with someone from Perth, you’re going to end up moving to Perth. This is because locals know how unbeatable the lifestyle is.
It’s not just about the surf and sand in Perth, though. It’s also known for its diverse neighbourhoods – from the historical port area of Fremantle or ‘Freo’ to the trendy Subiaco and riverside beauty of King’s Park. Other major selling points for Perth include low pollution, plentiful green spaces, a thriving job market and near-negligible crime levels.
Which suburb is best to live in Perth?
In Perth, there’s truly something for everybody and each of its suburbs has a very different feel. While there’s no hard and fast answer to the question “where is the best place to live in Perth?”, there are certain pockets of the city that are considered more liveable than others.
In a report published by realestate.com.au, East Perth was named the most lifestyle-friendly suburb not only in Perth, but all of Western Australia. This is thanks to its close proximity to the city (an 8 minute drive or 12 minutes by public transport), waterfront dining scene and impressive position on the Swan River. Here, the median house price is $913,000, compared to $570,000 for units.
Highgate is considered another highly liveable suburb in Perth. Located under 2 km North-East of the CBD, this inner-city area is actually the smallest neighbourhood in Perth. This gives it a welcoming, small town feel, despite how close it is to the city. Here, the median house price sits at $700,000, compared to $357,500 for units.
A little further from the CBD, Ashfield is also regarded as a great place to live in Perth. Just over 8 km from the city centre, this riverside suburb was once known for its railway houses converted into state-funded housing. Now, it’s renowned for its affordable prices – the median house price here is just $455,000.
If your budget extends a little further, Crawley and Rossmoyne are also popular suburbs in Perth. Sitting on the serene Matilda Bay, Crawley will set you back around $815,000 for a unit, while Rossmoyne is an affluent suburb in the Canning River with a median house price of $1,160,000.
What are the safest suburbs in Perth?
Perth is widely regarded as one of the safest capital cities to live in. But, like anywhere, this varies greatly from suburb to suburb. In fact, realestate.com.au’s Life in Australia Index report shows that 72% of Perth residents consider safety their number one factor in deciding where to live – ranking it above even affordable housing and high quality health services. The research showed that Perth locals value safety more than residents in any other major city.
Canstar data shows that the beachside suburb of Iluka is the safest suburb in Perth, with a crime rate of just 1.33 reported incidents per 100 residents. Other extremely safe suburbs in Perth based on crime data are Mahogany Creek, Hovea, Stoneville, Parkerville, Tapping, Burns Beach, Connolly, Roleystone and Darch.
What are the worst suburbs in Perth in terms of safety?
If those are the safest suburbs, you might be wondering “where should I not live in Perth?” Based on WA Police Force data, the suburb with the highest crime rate in Perth is Northbridge, the nightlife centre of Perth. This suburb has a rate of 257.38 reported incidents per 100 residents. Other areas with comparatively high crime rates include Kwinana Town Centre, Neerabup, O’Connor, Burswood, Midland, Cockburn Central, Midvale and Haynes.What is the richest suburb in Perth?
Flanked on three sides by the Swan River, the picturesque suburb of Dalkeith is the most expensive suburb in Perth. For those who have seen the luxurious mansions in the leafy area, it would come as no surprise that the median house price sits at $2.29 million.
The second richest suburb in Perth is Cottesloe, which is highly desirable for its beach lifestyle and proximity to Fremantle and the CBD. Here, the median house price sits just behind Dalkeith at $2.187 million.
Travel a little further along the coastline and you’ll find City Beach, Perth’s third most expensive suburb. Here, the name pretty much sums it up – it offers the best of both worlds. Not only is it in relatively close proximity to Perth’s city centre, it has some of the city’s most pristine beaches. Here, the median house price is $1.72 million
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Is it expensive to live in Perth?
Not compared to most capital cities! According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, Perth is the most affordable capital city in Australia, ahead of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.
What are the best suburbs in Perth for families?
With its community feel, affordable prices and great natural scenery, Perth is an ideal place to raise a family. Family-friendly suburbs are spread out throughout the city and include:
Churchlands
There’s a lot to love about this suburb, located 8 km North-West of the CBD. It boasts a lake, close proximity to the beach, natural reserves and even wildlife sanctuary. Couple that with the low crime rates and it’s an excellent place for families to live.
Dalkeith
Growing families need more space, and Dalkeith offers that in abundance. Not only does this riverside suburb have some of the biggest homes in the city, but there’s plenty of parks and wide open spaces. While the mansions in the area push the median price up, there are still some options for family homes to accomodate other budgets.
Salter Point
If quiet, clean and safe streets are a priority, you can’t go past Salter Point. Surrounded by the Canning River, it offers plenty of places to go for a dip as a family, including the Salter lagoon. Overall, the area offers a relaxing and idyllic lifestyle.
Shelley
Located 10 km from the city centre, this suburb is developing a reputation as a hidden gem. The large lots offer plenty of privacy and despite being quite self-contained with shops and amenities, there’s easy access to the CBD.
Other suburbs that are a haven for families include Attadale, Floreat, Rossmyone, Swanbourne, Menora and Mount Claremont.
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What are the best suburbs in Perth to rent?
Perth is a popular place to rent as compared to many other major cities, your dollar can go a lot further. The most popular suburbs in Perth to rent include the Perth City centre and East Perth, which are known as the business hubs of the city. Other desirable inner city suburbs for renters include Mount Lawley, West Perth and South Perth. Further out of the city centre, the developing suburbs of Baldivis, suburban area of Como and beachside area of Scarborough are also popular choices for tenants.
If affordability is top priority, Osborne Park is currently the cheapest suburb in Perth to rent. This industrial area has a median weekly rent of just $265. Wembley and Glendalough are other accessible options, as both have a median rent of $270.
What are the best suburbs in Perth to buy?
If you’re looking to invest in some earth for the first time, there are few better places to do so than Perth. It’s ideal for first time buyers, due to its accessible entry point. While housing prices are currently low, it’s tipped by experts to experience a boom over the next few years – although it is currently unclear how the economic situation around COVID-19 will affect this.
Perth’s property market is split into the inner ring (suburbs less than 15 km from the city) and outer ring (more than 15 km from the city) The general consensus amongst real estate experts is that the inner ring is the best place to buy. As Perth is a growing city, locals are likely to want to be as close as possible to entertainment, dining options and shopping centres.
Some of the best suburbs in Perth to buy a home include:
Girrawheen
With a median house price of $278,000, this Northern suburb is a popular option with first time buyers.
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Beechboro
Located in the City of Swan area, Beechboro has a median house price of $345,000. There has been a 12.2% growth in sales over the last years, indicating that this is a strong suburb to watch.
Tuart Hill
Located just 6 km of the city and with a median house price of just $345,000, this riverside suburb is considered something of a steak.
Bayswater
With a median house price of $530,000, this inner city suburb is one of the more expensive options on this list. However, located just 6 km from the CBD and with a major train station in development, it’s an area with strong long-term potential.
Other promising suburbs to buy in Perth include East Victoria Park, the Southern suburbs of Cannington and Willagee and the middle suburbs of Stirling and East Fremantle.
Whether you’re looking to take advantage of Perth’s accessible prices as an investment or settle into your forever home, there’s plenty of great options to buy in Perth. This may not necessarily mean buying in one of Perth’s most popular suburbs, but taking a look at what has a strong reputation can help point you in the right direction.
Words by Emma Norris
Sources:
- https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/wa/its-official-wa-the-new-sunshine-state-with-more-hours-of-light-than-queensland-ng-038cc9e64fb862b6e74439a806dd6c8c
- https://www.realestate.com.au/news/where-are-the-best-suburbs-to-live-in-perth/
- https://www.realestate.com.au/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/21103807/realestate.com_.au-Life-in-Australia-Report-powered-by-Ipsos.pdf
- https://www.domain.com.au/news/perths-most-expensive-suburbs-and-where-to-look-instead-803294/
- https://www.canstar.com.au/home-loans/safest-suburbs-perth/
- https://www.realestateview.com.au/blog/2018/06/10-popular-perth-suburbs-renters/
- https://www.themovingman.com.au/10-best-perth-suburbs-to-move-your-family/
- https://www.rent.com.au/blog/cheapest-expensive-suburbs
- https://www.openagent.com.au/blog/best-suburbs-to-invest-perth-2019
- https://www.bankwest.com.au/personal/home-buying/guides/top-suburbs-to-buy-perth-2020
If buying a property in Perth is on the cards, be sure to work with an experienced broker to ensure the settlement process is as stress-free and streamlined as possible. You don’t need to leave your house to get an eChoice home loan consultation – As always we will discuss your options over the phone – we’re here to make your home loan journey easier.
For customers with the major banks, sharing data is about to get a whole lot easier – and better banking deals could be up for grabs – following the official launch of open banking in Australia.
Launched on July 1 after a previous five-month delay, open banking means major bank customers can now share financial data with ACCC accredited third parties, making it easier for customers to seek out better deals on banking products.
As of last week, major bank customers are able to share information about their credit and debit cards or savings and transaction accounts, giving customers the opportunity to ‘shop around’ for more competitive products.
Today Australia’s four major banks open up their data so that customers can share it in order to get the best deal possible on credit cards, savings accounts and other deposit products. https://t.co/XymnzywvoO
— Australian Banking (@ausbanking) July 1, 2020
From November 2020, open banking will also include the ability to share data from mortgage and loan accounts, as well as from joint accounts.
Although the first stage of open banking’s rollout is only for customers with the major banks, other authorised deposit-taking institutions are expected to get on board by February 2021.
The move is part of the Consumer Data Right (CDR), an Australian Government initiated system to improve competition in services industries by giving customers more control over their data. Through CDR, customers can share data between accredited providers to aid them in comparing products or services, or to help them access new and improved services.
Now that CDR has begun to be rolled out in the banking industry, in the future it’s thought to be introduced to the energy sector to give customers better access to product comparisons and accurate quotes.
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How does it work?
Open banking is an ‘opt-in’ process and uses the CDR to let customers choose what services have access to their financial data.
To use open banking, the customer must first check whether the service they’re looking into has been accredited by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). This can be checked via the online CDR Register.
Consumers can now choose to share their banking data to access more personalised financial products and services following the launch of the Consumer Data Right today. Learn more about the Consumer Data Right here: https://t.co/0mwZpKcdVw pic.twitter.com/5tJH4PCyWz
— ACCC (@acccgovau) July 1, 2020
If accredited, there will be an option on the service’s website for you to give your consent for data to be shared from your current bank. This will include options such as what data you’re willing to share, what you’re willing to let your data to be used for and how long you’re willing to share it.
Once permission is received, you will be directed to your current bank’s CDR page, where you can log-in with your existing customer ID and a unique password (provided by your current bank). Here, you will be able to see and manage the data you’ve agreed to share, as well as withdraw consent at any time.
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Will open banking make it easier for me to change banks or lenders?
In theory, yes, under open banking the process of applying for a loan or changing banks or lenders will be made less onerous and involve less paperwork.
However, given the early nature of the system many service providers are yet to register with the ACCC.
At the time of writing, all four major banks are registered as participating data holders but only two financial institutions, Frollo Australia PTY Limited and Regional Australia Bank Ltd., are listed as approved data recipients.
NAB welcomes the first phase of Open Banking. We will continue to invest in the future phases of Open Banking for a greater customer experience and the growth of the economy.https://t.co/pbP12IWGl6
— NAB (@NAB) July 1, 2020
Over time, more financial service providers will be added and by September the ACCC anticipates 39 more providers to have jumped on board as data recipients.
In a LinkedIn post, Regional Australia Bank confirmed open banking had already been used to fast-track a loan application, allowing a customer to begin and have a personal loan application approved in a matter of hours.
“Following a day of checking and fine-tuning, at 5:40 pm an online personal loan application was commenced by a new customer who elected to share their transaction history using CDR,” the bank revealed.
“Unaided, they provided consent and authorised the secure electronic transfer of 3,505 transactions from their bank to us. The data was collected in 21 seconds, completing at 5:46 pm. That data was then automatically analysed into spending categories, surfaced within the application form and original transaction data deleted, all in under 2 minutes. The customer continued with their application which was submitted and then approved by our credit team at 8:57 pm.”
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Will my privacy be protected?
In a media statement the ACCC confirmed maintaining the security of consumer data would be a top priority for the CDR.
“Maintaining security and privacy are top priorities for the ACCC, in addition to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) and the Data Standards Body (DSB),” the statement said.
To used shared data, companies require ACCC accreditation which involves meeting strict security and IT requirements. According to ABC News following the launch, more than 50 service providers had applied for accreditation but only two were approved.
Canstar finance expert Steve Mickenbecker said that while there had been much discussion surrounding security and privacy concerns, it should not be forgotten that the ACCC is a regulatory body who has put safeguards in place.
“Data recipients have to jump through many hurdles to be approved, and need to satisfy all sorts of requirements with their systems and security,” he said.
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Words by Kathryn Lee
Sources:
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)
- Australian Banking Association (ABA)
- Australian Government (via the Consumer Data Right website)
Is your current interest rate still competitive? Contact one of our mortgage brokers to compare your options and find a deal that suits you.
There’s no time like now to start cooking up tasty dishes with your kids. Spending extra time in the kitchen with your kids can help them develop a positive experience with all different types of foods, fruits and vegetables. Children can also start to learn basic cooking skills and form knowledge about good nutrition and healthy eating.
Activities in the kitchen will ensure children can use all their senses – touching, tasting, smelling, listening and seeing. There are also lots of different ways to have kids involved throughout the cooking progress. For older kids, they can help prepare food using knives and cook on the stove. For younger children, they can wash fruits and vegetables, help with utensils and mix ingredients together. Cooking together with kids provides practical skills such as following directions and coordination. Hands-on cooking activities can also help children develop confidence by successfully completing a task or learning a dish. Following recipes also encourages children to be self directed and work on their problem solving skills.
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Other benefits of cooking with children
Mathematical instincts
Cooking a meal involves mathematics and measurements, which can be used as practice for children. For example, kids can learn more about fractions using half cups and quarter cups during cooking, as well as doubling the recipe when required.
Learning about nutrition
Kids can be more likely to eat their meals if they’ve helped to peel and slice them. Getting them to help out in the kitchen can generate a meaningful conversation about proper nutrition and a healthy diet that isn’t just cookies and chips. A tip is to allow children to pick what to eat for dinner once a week, on the condition that it has to be a balanced meal. Start simple and work up depending on the child’s age and skill level.
Making it a part of family time
Cooking is fun for the kids, but it can also be an opportunity to bond as a family. Cooking together builds traditions and can help strengthen the relationship between siblings, parents and everyone altogether. Family meal preparation is also a chance to celebrate cultural heritage by passing down recipes from generations. If not, kids and parents can sit down and find new recipes to start a family cookbook together.
We’ve sourced some tasty recipes below from KidSpot that you can try with your children. These recipes are quick to make, with various beginner cooking skills embedded throughout so kids can learn at an easy pace.
Recipe 1
Devilled egg chicks
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 3 slice carrot
- 24 capers (blotted dry)
- Fresh dill (to garnish)
Method:
Step 1: Place eggs in a saucepan and with enough water to fully submerge them. Bring the water to a boil on a high heat, cover with the lid and remove from the heat.
Step 2: Leave the eggs to cook in the saucepan for 12 minutes. Cool, then peel.
Step 3: Slice a bit off the bottom of the egg so that it can stand upright on its own. Cut off the top third of the egg, reserving the “lid” you’ve just removed. Gently remove the yolks and place in a medium-sized bowl.
Step 4: Add the mayonnaise, Parmesan and mustard to the egg yolk and mix together until smooth. Transfer the yolk mixture to a zip-lock bag.
Step 5: Snip a small hole in the corner of the bag and pipe the mixture back into the hollowed out eggs. Fill the egg, as well as an extra inch above the rim.
Step 6: Cut carrot (or you could use capsicum) into very small triangles. Place capers in the place of eyes and carrot as a beak. Top the yolk face with the egg white “lid” we removed earlier.
Step 7: Refrigerate for at least an hour or up to one day. To serve, line platter with dill. Arrange chicks carefully on top.
Recipe 2
Popcorn Chicken
Ingredients:
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1kg skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups of panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
Ingredients for Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400° and grease two large baking sheets with oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add eggs to a medium shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together bread crumbs, cornmeal, Parmesan, and cayenne. Season with salt.
Step 3: Working in batches, add chicken to eggs then dredge in bread crumb mixture until fully coated. Spread chicken in even layers on prepared baking sheets.
Step 4: Bake chicken until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway through, about 25 minutes.
Step 5: Meanwhile, make dipping sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, honey, and cayenne until fully combined.
Step 6: Serve chicken with dipping sauce.
Recipe 3
Healthy vegetable and chicken sausage rolls
Ingredients:
- 8 sheets frozen puff pastry
- 1 kg chicken mince
- 4 eggs
- 3 tbs LSA (linseed, sunflower seeds and almonds)
- 1 cup flaked quinoa
- 1/2 cup wholegrain bread crumbs
- 1 kg mixed vegetables
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
Method:
Step 1: Preheat your oven on high (around 210°C).
Step 2: Chop all the vegetables into small and fine pieces.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients, except for the puff pastry and the extra egg (which will be used to brush the pastry).
Step 4: After the puff pastry is defrosted, cut a sheet in half and lay it down as a long rectangle.
Step 5: Using a tablespoon, lay out the sausage roll mix in a long thin line at the bottom of the sheet (keep in mind you will need to roll the puff pastry over the sausage roll mix so there are two layers of pastry overlapping). Before rolling up the mix in the pastry, brush some egg over the pastry as ‘glue’. Keep the roll whole, brush with more egg on top and place on a tray with baking paper.
Step 6: Repeat this process until all of the mix is used up.
Step 7: With a sharp, thin bladed knife, cut the logs of the sausage rolls into smaller pieces. Lay each piece 2cm apart on a tray lined with baking paper.
Step 8: Bake on high for 15min until the pastry starts to golden, then turn the oven down to 180°C. Depending on the strength of your oven, you may need to move trays around from top to bottom and keep an eye on the bottom of the sausage rolls that they don’t become too dark.
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Recipe 4
Dr Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham
Ingredients:
- 6 extra large free range eggs
- 120g ham off the bone
- 50ml green food colouring
Method:
Step 1: Place a drop of food colouring on a slice of ham. Spread it around with your finger or a basting brush and pat any excess dye off with a paper towel. Fry the ham until the edges turn crispy .
Step 2: Combine water and food dye in a small bowl. Crack an egg and let just the yolk bathe in the mixture.
Step 3: Heat a frying pan on low and add a teaspoon of oil. Pour the egg whites into the pan one at a time and let sit for a moment.
Step 4: Add the green yolk to the middle of the sizzling egg white and cook to your liking.
Step 5: Remove eggs carefully and place on a plate. Place ham on plate and season accordingly.
Recipe 5
Rice Bubbles Waffles
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbs melted butter
- 2 cups self-raising flour
- 2 cups Kellogg’s Rice Bubbles
- 2 tbs honey
- Fresh berries (strawberries and blueberries)
Method:
Step 1: Combine all ingredients except the berries into a protein shaker and shake to mix together.
Step 2: Pour the batter straight into a waffle maker and cook until ready. If you don’t have a waffle maker, use a grill pan on medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes until waffles feel crispy- they might look like strange waffles, but still delicious!
Step 3: Once cooked, serve these delicious Rice Bubbles waffles with fresh strawberries and blueberries, sprinkle Rice Bubbles on top and drizzle with natural honey. This makes an extra sweet fruit bowl to add to the table for breakfast!
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Home improvements and DIY have been a top priority for Australian’s in lockdown in the last few months, with departments stores making record sales on home improvement goods. While there are many basic home projects that people can easily complete themselves, it’s also important to know when to call in the experts.
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Although many trades managed to continue to work through the coronavirus pandemic, those that are required to enter homes were encouraged to find new ways to work to comply with social distancing. Tradies across the country have managed to find new ways to use technology to continue to help their clients. This includes using cloud computing, mobile apps, construction management software, drones, artificial intelligence and more to make processes more efficient and digitise their profession.
Getting tech savvy with video technology
Unless you’re an expert in the subject it can be hard to tell when you require expert help with your home improvement or repair job. Any repair involving plumbing, electrical or drainage systems may have legal requirements that you’ll need to meet in order to complete your repair and this is where tradespeople come in. Even repairs that you can legally do yourself are not always worth the time it’ll take you to get them done.
Before calling a tradie out to your house it’s good to know just how much help you’ll need. Video conferencing has become a huge part of our lives in 2020 thanks to physical distancing restrictions, and savvy tradies are using the same technologies to consult with clients and quote on jobs. Using any video conferencing platform, from Zoom to Facetime, tradies are able to advise on a job without visiting the job site. This can save both the client and the tradesman time and money, and tradies can advise when a trip to the DIY store and a quick fix will suffice and when you’ll need to call in the experts.
For tradespeople, offering video conferencing services also saves time on travelling to various sites and can allow them to advise and quote a large number of clients in a short amount of time. With the world of trades set to look different following the coronavirus pandemic tradespeople would do well to introduce a video consulting service.
Some tradespeople are also producing videos throughout isolation to enable clients to perform at-home renovations or temporary fixes that they would usually outsource. If you’re looking to improve your DIY skills or simply put in place a temporary solution until a tradie can get to your house take a look on YouTube for helpful how-to videos.
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Using digital marketing to save time
Using marketing is an easy way to grow your business and client base, but traditional marketing can be time consuming, taking up essential hours that tradies could be working hands-on.
A range of online platforms now exist that allow them to market themselves to their local communities quickly and easily. Site such as Online Tradies and Hipages act as a digital directory to assist those in need of a tradesperson to connect with one locally. Tradies can also explore online marketplaces like Airtaskers that allow them to offer their services or accept jobs peer-to-peer.
Download the app https://t.co/eze7GWbUnP and join over 2 million Australians who’ve changed the way they tradie. pic.twitter.com/HNZM9XaPKv
— hipages (@hipages) August 12, 2018
Just like clients contact tradespeople when they don’t possess the skills to complete their repair, it’s important to know when to outsource. Online platforms can help create personalised websites for marketing services without a huge commitment from the business owner. Digital Tradesman is an online digital marketing agency aimed at helping builders, contractors, and tradespeople create web optimised sites to increase the potential of new clients.
You might also like: Home improvement and DIY items top Aussie spending lists
Using software to maximise job efficiency
There’s are software solutions for every problem these days, and trades business management is no different. Invest some time and money in quality software options to maximise your job efficiency and save your dollars in the long run. The options vary depending on your needs, and many options also include smartphone apps for business management on the go.
Utilising payroll and accounts software is a must for most business owners or self-employed tradies. Following up quotes and invoices, ensuring employees are paid, and dealing with incoming bills are all necessary but time consuming. This software is not new but it’s essential for saving time, meaning you can spend more hours on the tools and less on the books. There are plenty of options so consider what your needs are and shop around. Xero or MYOB are both popular and easy to learn options.
Job management software provides some payroll and accounting features but is also a complete software system, allowing you to track a job from start to finish. Depending on your software choice you’ll be able to schedule your workers and have their work hours sent to them, stay on top of work flow from initial quote to final invoices, use quote templates to save time on costing jobs, and collate time sheets and receipts to make invoicing a breeze. You’ll also increase the productivity of your workers once you do away with manual paperwork and time sheets. Popular options include purpose-built Tradify or Ascora.
It’s worth spending the time to learn how to use your software of choice – you’ll find this helps streamline your payroll and accounts processes and saves you time in the long run.
What does the future look like for trades?
Technological advancements continue to revolutionise trades of every sector. Virtual reality is one technology that is tipped to change the way tradies do their jobs. Virtual reality technology is already being used for job planning, education and health and safety in the sector. Further down the track using VR technology will allow builders and homeowners to complete virtual reality renovation concept walkthroughs rather than the more traditional plans or models. A huge benefit of this will be clients being able to identify design issues long before construction starts. It can also be a huge asset in the training and compliance of apprentices.
Related: Your guide to a complete home renovation
Using 3D printing is also set to change the way work sites operate. With 3D printers on site tradies would have the ability to print necessary parts and tools in the moment. This technology is already being used to print effective electrical components including resistors and inductors.
Drones are another technology starting to be used by various trades. While drones are mostly finding use in larger commercial sites, for electricians and arborists there are daily applications. Drones can streamline tasks such as site mapping, surveying, crop inspection in farms and vineyards, infrastructure inspection and wildlife and ecosystem monitoring.
Words by Danielle Austin
Want to renovate and on the lookout for a home loan? Try contacting an eChoice broker. With access to 100s of mortgage products from over 25 lenders, eChoice brokers have the resources to find YOU the right home loan deal.
A group of non-major lenders with about 100,000 borrowers on the six-month deferral period for loan repayments are now showing the big four banks the way out of the COVID-19 crisis.
These lenders begin the road to sizing up the ability of customers to restart payments or take more drastic measures after the deferral period ends.
The Australian Banking Association has stated in their media release that in the period of March 2020 – April 2020, there has been a total amount of $224 billion loans deferred and $165 billion mortgages have been deferred.
June 12 Banking Activity Update: loan deferrals flattening, business lending rising. Combined number of all loan deferrals: 772,616, worth $234Bn. Business lending now $118Bn.
— Australian Banking (@ausbanking) June 12, 2020
More info: https://t.co/M0IWdfCFxX pic.twitter.com/OJDhmeHsb6
Australian Banking Association CEO, Anna Bligh said, “these new figures, released today, shows banks working overtime to ensure assistance is given where needed to customers who are affected by this crisis”.
“The surge in demand for assistance from banks shows that the economic impacts continue to be felt, and by no means is the nation through this crisis,” she said.
Macquarie Bank, Bendigo Bank, Adelaide Bank and Suncorp are some of the biggest players in Australian home lending, accounting for 7.8% of the market.
Disclosures from the banks reveal they have frozen $19.5 billion worth of loans, or 8.3% of the $235 billion in total that have been deferred.
You might also like: Repayments deferred but not forgotten: The truth about mortgage holidays
Peter Warne, Independent Director and Chairman of Macquarie, has said in their annual release “Macquarie has not been immune to the effects of these once‑in‑a‑century global circumstances, as reflected by volatility in our share price in late March. Notably, the trajectory of Macquarie’s share price was broadly consistent with global peers either side of the end of FY2020”.
Macquarie Bank has one of the largest declared portfolios of deferred loans among the second tier of lenders, with just under $10 billion in loans on ice.
At Macquarie’s May results the bank revealed it had deferred $5.84 billion worth of home loans and personal credit, $1.5 billion worth of business loans and $1.84 billion worth of automotive finance.
Following the industry’s decision to grant a blanket reprieve on repayments to those who applied, Macquarie’s digital team built a process that allowed customers to defer a loan in just three clicks, with almost every one of the 30,000 deferrals granted by Macquarie completed online.
In response to the evolving coronavirus situation, Macquarie Personal Banking and Business Banking clients can pause their loan repayments for six months. If you’ve been impacted and need immediate financial assistance, apply online here https://t.co/h18bCLQDUD pic.twitter.com/D5pYwgPa1r
— Macquarie Bank (@macquariebank) March 24, 2020
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s portfolio of deferred loans as declared on May 28 was smaller than Macquarie’s, with the bank revealing 20,411 customers with loans amounting to a combined $6.3 billion had been frozen.
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has cut its variable and fixed business loans to help support their business customers in a challenging time for the sector and the economy.
You might also like: What is a debt consolidation home loan – and how can it help you manage your debts?
The Bank has reduced its business loan variable reference rates by 100 basis points for residentially secured business loans and 75 basis points for non-residential and unsecured business loans. This announcement provides small business customers with further support to help them navigate the challenges ahead.
“Our commitment to our customers and their communities has always been to support them through both the good times and tougher times. Small businesses are the engine room of our economy, employing millions of our fellow Australians and their success feeds into everyone’s success,” said Marnie Baker, Managing Director, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.
Suncorp has followed suit and has aided in taking care of the matter before it escalates to far from their control.
The lender paused repayments on $4.05 billion worth of loans or 8.6% of its $47.2 billion loan book but provided no information on its $11 billion worth of business loans outstanding.
However, Suncorp has also aided small and medium businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic following their new unsecured SME Support Loan. The loans are part of the Australian Government’s Coronavirus SME Guarantee Scheme which aims to help small and medium business owners through these challenging times.
Suncorp Bank CEO Lee Hatton said in a news release that the bank stands with the government to support and invest in Australian businesses and their local economies when they need it most.
“At a time when business owners are feeling the strain, we’re here to help. For any small or medium-sized business owner – cashflow matters so these loans will make a real difference to them, their business and the people they employ” Ms Hatton said.
Words by Ece Demir
You might also like: Federal government package offers $25,000 grants to home builders, renovators
Sources:
- Suncorp backs businesses impacted by COVID-19
- Supporting Australians and the economy through COVID-19
- Bendigo Bank bolsters COVID-19 support with rate cuts for business and home loan customers
- Second tier banks to light the way on home loans
Looking for a home loan? Contact eChoice. With access to 100s of mortgage products from over 25 different lenders, eChoice brokers have the resources to help you find the perfect home loan. Best of all? We do all the paperwork!
We’re now in the start of winter, and there’s no better sanctuary against the weather than your home. Homes provide a dry and warm environment against the wet season, especially when temperatures drop to single digits. Winter is also a time where problems in the home often flare up; taking a closer look and winter proofing your house is essential to staying toasty and avoiding expensive repair bills.
Here are some steps on how to keep your home winter-proofed and warm as you bundle up during winter.
1. Seal your windows and doors
One of the first steps to ensuring your home stays warm is to cover all the cracks on your windows and doors. It may not seem like there are any at first, but you might notice tiny cracks at a closer glance! These cracks allow heat to escape and winds to come into your home. Adding a seal around doors and windows will keep you warmer and heat up your home efficiently – saving money on your next heating bill.
2. Ensure you have proper insulation
Check your insulation when winter-proofing your home, especially those in the ceiling and floor. Insulation can wear down over time. Harsh weather conditions, pests in the walls or simply just time can break down the materials, making it less effective in the long run. If you don’t replace your home’s insulation, it may become more expensive to heat your home over the winter.
You might also like: Make your home sustainable
3. Check and clear the gutters
Blockages are common when gutters start to build up with leaves and other rubbish. Downpipes need to work effectively to avoid blockages and a leaky roof. Cleaning your gutters in a single storey home can be a DIY job, however you should consider having a professional gutter repair service for two or more storey homes. Professional gutters can look for areas to repair and replace whilst cleaning, which can further help your home withstand heavy storms.
4. Prune and trim trees that can have a risk of breaking off during storms
Storms can bring heavy rains during winter, so it’s important to identify any loose branches that could potentially snap off and damage your home in case of extreme weather. If you can’t do it yourself, you can always get a gardener to come inspect any trees that could be at risk.
5. Clean your fireplace
If you have a fireplace in your home, consider getting a professional inspection of your flue. Fireplaces that aren’t cleaned regularly have a build up of soot and ash byproducts that can potentially be toxic if inhaled. Over the summer months when your fireplace is not in use, your flue can also attract pests like mice and birds, causing blockages. Regular cleaning will also ensure that there are no structural concerns upon inspection.
6. Moulding in winter
Mould becomes a problem during the winter months as they love wet environments. The cause of mould isn’t because of the coldness outside, but rather because your house will be heated. The combination of moisture and warmth is the perfect recipe for mould. Homemade remedies like vinegar and water can help get rid of mould you can see. But mould generally means water is finding its way into your home through a leakage. If you don’t fix the source, the mould will always come back. A dehumidifier can also be something to invest in if your house is too humid.
7. Invest in warm rugs
Floors account for approximately 10-20% of heat loss when they aren’t insulated. If your home has tiles and floorboards, chances are they’re not going to be winter-friendly. An effective way to winterproof your floors is to buy some rugs. Not only do they help retain heat and instantly add warmth, they also feel great under your feet. A woolly sheepskin rug, for instance, will provide insulation through its natural fibres.
You might also like: Revamp your home with mirrors
8. Clean your air conditioning
To reduce your energy bills and ensure your air conditioning unit is in optimal condition, it’s important to keep your air filters clean through the winter season. If your home is prone to dust and pet hair, it’s essential to clean your filters once or twice during the winter. Not only is this hygienic, but it will also make air flow better within the house.
9. Try using door snakes for doors inside
An inexpensive option to winter proof your home are door snakes which can be picked up from your local hardware store. These can come in handy especially if you only stay in one or two rooms at a time. Door snakes come in all different shapes and sizes and stop cold drafts coming in from both sides of the door. If you have a portable heater running in a room, this can trap the heat to where you want it.
10. Use a thermostat to regulate your heating
Thermostats work to maintain the preferred temperature in a heating system. In winter, use the thermostat on a timer to switch the heating on earlier rather than turning it up in short increments to warm your house. You can also buy smart thermostats that can be turned on remotely and switched off via an app.
11. Invest in double or triple glazed windows
Windows play a big role in the heating and cooling of a home. According to the government’s YourHome website, “up to 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost and up to 87% of its heat gained through windows.” Improving your windows thermal performance will not only reduce the transference of hot and cold, but it will reduce energy costs and greenhouse emissions.
12. Go for thicker window coverings
Although sheer curtains are a good look during the summer, they aren’t as effective at keeping the cold air out. In winter, opting for thick window coverings, such as curtains to the floor, are a great option to keep the cold air outside and the hot air inside.
13. Put up storm windows
Many older homes have storm windows that act as a further extra layer of protection to windows, making it more difficult for air to pass in and out. If you don’t have any storm windows, you can easily make one with plastic sheeting around your windows. There are also kits available from your local hardware store to cover windows with.
14. Do roof repairs before winter hits
Winter proofing your home on the outside is just as important as on the inside. In winter, roofs are especially vulnerable to damage due to strong winds and storms. If your roof needs work done coming into winter, have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent any further structural damage. With roof repairs or replacements, you can also think about other insulating materials to add all in one go.
You might also like: How to up the ‘cosy’ factor at home this winter
15. Turn your fan in reverse
Did you know ceiling fans also work in the winter? Most ceiling fan models have a reverse switch to make the blades turn anti-clockwise. It won’t work to heat your home per se, but ceiling fans can be used to push all the warm air in the room back down towards the floor, since hot air rises to the top. It’s easy, efficient and helps you make the most of your heating system.
16. Inspect your water pipes
The water pipes in your home can become a problem when they freeze, get blocked or bust because of the cold weather. Checking that they aren’t cracked or split in any way can prevent leakage or any possible water damage to your home. You can also add insulation to your water pipes by purchasing pipe jackets and fitting them to the pipes to be extra cautious.
17. Use a humidifier
Running a humidifier can make your home feel warmer and it’s also good for your health. Winter air dries out your nose and gives you itchy skin. Having a climate of moist air in your home will prevent all of that and stop your body (and furniture) from drying out.
18. Flush your water heater
Sediment and debris can build up in water heaters over time. When there’s a lot of it, it can start to affect the effectiveness of your water heater. To avoid this, flush out your heater just before winter by dumping out all the water that’s currently inside it, including any rubbish that’s currently inside. It’s cheap and quick, and will help maximise your water heater’s performance in the winter.
19. Schedule in an energy audit
Energy audits are offered by many utility companies and are free. This will help examine your home for any energy improvements that may be necessary or helpful during winter. You can schedule an energy audit for any time of the year (however, just before winter kicks in is the most ideal time) and even pay for a comprehensive energy audit which will include detailed recommendations and feedback.
You might also like: Energy efficient homes attract 10% higher prices
Words by Joanne Ly
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On Thursday the Australian government announced the HomeBuilder stimulus scheme, offering $25,000 cash grants for buyers of freshly built homes or those renovating their property.
This is a $668 million plan from the Property Council of Australia as part of its seven-point plan to the National Cabinet for starting up construction again and the economy.
Unlike many of the first home buyer grants of between $7000 – $20,000 administrated by state governments, this new scheme will have its limitations, and it cannot be used by anyone who’d just like to build a new patio, pool, tennis court or cheaply renoate their bathroom or kitchen.
To access HomeBuilder, owner-occupiers must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- you are a natural person (not a company or trust);
- you are aged 18 years or older;
- you are an Australian citizen;
- you meet one of the following two income caps:
- $125,000 per annum for an individual applicant based on your 2018-19 tax return or later; or
- $200,000 per annum for a couple based on both 2018-19 tax returns or later;
- you enter into a building contract between 4 June 2020 and 31 December 2020 to either:
- build a new home as a principal place of residence, where the property value (house and land) does not exceed $750,000; or
- substantially renovate your existing home as a principal place of residence, where the renovation contract is between $150,000 and $750,000, and where the value of your existing property (house and land) does not exceed $1.5 million;
- construction must commence within three months of the contract date.
With the ‘HomeBuilder’ scheme, the $25,000 cash grant will be restricted to people on middle incomes and to new homes and major renovations valued between $150,000 to $750,000.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the $25,000 grant between now and December 31, with the work contracted to start within three months of the contract date.
Grants must be spent to:
- Build a new home as a principal place of residence valued at up to $750,000 (including land); or
- Substantially renovate an existing home as a principal place of residence, with renovations valued at between $150,000 and $750,000 and the dwelling not valued at more than $1.5m before the renovation.
Even the cheapest renovation eligible for the scheme ($150,000) would require a grant recipient to spend at least $125,000 of their own money -meaning the scheme is most likely to be accessed by those with substantial savings or a willingness to borrow.
The renovation can be a combination of works (eg, a kitchen and bathroom renovation) but must be supervised by a registered or licensed builder.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison noted that the “average price” for building a new home is $350,000, which suggests houses that roughly double the average will be eligible.
The Housing Industry Association estimates at least 14,000 renovations costing over $150,000 are undertaken every year.
In addition to the grant, this proposed stimulus package would also include funding for renovations to make homes more resilient to natural disasters and funding for commercial programs, such as cladding and asbestos rectification.
Related: Make your home sustainable
This scheme came under way amid the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) warning that the housing sector would face an extended period of hardships as Australia’s economy falls into a recession – probably the worst recession in 90 years.
Home builders have already reported contract cancellation rates of more than 30% since the shutdown of key parts of the economy in order to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The construction sector employs more than 1.1 million people and it has shed at least 5% of its workforce since March 2020, which was noted in the minutes of the RBA’s June meeting.
This new ‘HomeBuilder’ scheme would stimulate the constructions of at least 30,000 dwellings by December and support 200,000 jobs.
Related: New home boost grant as the RBA & HIA raise property concerns
The scheme is forecast to cost taxpayers $688 million. But it is uncapped, so its final cost will be determined by how popular it is – it may cost more, it may cost less.
The Government estimates the scheme will fund about 27,520 projects (at $25,000 each).
The housing sector is critical to the Australian economy. Our #HomeBuilder program is designed to boost construction to create jobs & grow our economy. #HomeBuilder will provide a $25k grant to eligible owner-occupiers to build a new home or renovate an existing home🏡. pic.twitter.com/ke211eX1Ez
— Josh Frydenberg (@JoshFrydenberg) June 3, 2020
Ken Morrison, Chief Executive of the Property Council of Australia, said the Australian economy requires “big and bold thinking” to get going again following the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This investment isn’t just about helping Australians bring their dream home to life, it’s about creating jobs and helping support the more than 1 million workers in the sector including builders, painters, plumbers and electricians across the country,
Ken Morrison
“As Australia’s biggest employer which contributes over 13% of GDP, the property industry can be a powerhouse behind economic recovery and growth with the right policy settings and market incentives from the federal, state and territory governments,” Mr Ken Morrison said.
The release of this new proposed scheme comes after the RBA’s concern and the new forecasts from the Housing Industry Association (HIA) of a near 50% fall in new home building which could put half a million jobs at risk over the next year.
Another new economic modelling plan was commissioned by Master Builders Australia, who found a $40,000 uncapped new home building grant would deliver 14,000 extra new homes and replenish most of the constructions jobs that have been lost.
Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders said in a media release the construction industry was one of the worst hit sectors by the pandemic and urgent government support was needed.
“We are seeking stimulus not subsidies from government, we want the National Cabinet to urgently implement this independently modelled stimulus package and establish a special task force to fast track commencement of construction activity.” Ms Wawn said.
“We know from previous downturns that it takes four times longer for our industry to recover than the rest of the economy.”
Under the proposed stimulus package, a $13.2 billion investment from governments would deliver:
- $30.9 billion in GDP growth;
- 105,500 jobs in construction and across the economy; and
- $17.6 billion in expanded construction activity (new dwelling starts, renovations and commercial construction activity
Their proposal comes only a week after the Property Council of Australia lobbied the ‘New Home Boost’ scheme.
“There is no time to spare in meeting this threat to the viability of nearly 400,000 building businesses and the jobs of 1.2 million people employed in our industry.”
Ms Wawn added Master Builders wanted to see a dedicated building and construction industry taskforce established to oversee the implementation of the stimulus package.
“For stimulus to occur building activity needs to commence. Builders and tradies cannot sustain their businesses and jobs on promises,” Ms Wawn said.
Words by Ece Demir
Last updated: 9 June 2020
If you’re thinking of building a new home or renovating your current one, the team at eChoice are here to help! Contact us today and we’ll help you work out if you’re eligible for this scheme.
To learn more:
Builders call on Government to introduce $40k uncapped new home building grant
Government pushed to introduce $50k grant for buyers of newly built homes
Home builders, renovators offered $25,000 grants in federal government package
Federal Treasury Media Release – HomeBuilder FAQs
Under a new proposed scheme the New Home Boost’ grant by Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s government, buyers of freshly built homes would get a $50,000 cheque under a $2.5 billion plan from the Property Council of Australia as part of its seven-point plan to the National Cabinet for starting up construction again and the economy.
Unlike many of the first home buyer grants of between $7000 – $20,000 administrated by state governments, the home boost grant would not have a property price cap and will be available to all types of buyers, not just first home buyers.
Related: First home buyers grant: Everything you need to know
With the ‘New Home Boost’ grants, the $50,000 cheque will be limited to the first 50,000 purchasers of newly built homes across the country.
This scheme came under way amid the Reserve Bank of Australian warning that the housing sector would face an extended period of hardships.
Home builders have already reported contract cancellation rates of more than 30% since the shutdown of key parts of the economy to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The construction sector employs more than 1.1 million people and it has shed at least 5% of its workforce since March 2020, which was noted in the minutes of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s most recent meeting. This new proposal would stimulate the constructions of at least 50,000 dwellings and support 200,000 jobs.
The program will run for 12 months and be limited to 50,000 properties and there will be no cap on the value of the house. The eligible properties would only include those with on-site construction commencement dates between 1 July 2020 and 30 June 2021.
Ken Morrison, Chief Executive of the Property Council of Australia, said the Australian economy requires “big and bold thinking” to get going again following the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Related: House prices continue to drop amidst Coronavirus pandemic
“As Australia’s biggest employer which contributes over 13 per cent of GDP, the property industry can be a powerhouse behind economic recovery and growth with the right policy settings and market incentives from the federal, state and territory governments,” Mr Morrison said.
The release of this new proposed scheme comes after the Reserve Bank of Australia’s concern and with new forecasts from the Housing Industry Association (HIA) of a near 50 per cent fall in new home building which could put half a million jobs at risk over the next year.
Another new economic modelling plan was commissioned by Master Builders Australia, who found a $40,000 uncapped new home building grant would deliver 14,000 extra new homes and replenish most of the constructions jobs that have been lost.
@theTiser reporting on @MBASA_News call for a $40,000 new home builders grant and Master Builders’ wider national $13.2b stimulus package to boost confidence, keep building businesses viable, create jobs and spark economic recovery https://t.co/YXgggvrVGe #saparli #auspol
— Master Builders Australia (@MBA_Aust) May 25, 2020
Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders said in a media release the construction industry was one of the worst hit sectors by the pandemic and urgent government support was needed.
“We are seeking stimulus not subsidies from government, we want the National Cabinet to urgently implement this independently modelled stimulus package and establish a special task force to fast track commencement of construction activity.” Ms Wawn said.
“Building and construction is shaping up to be one of the industry’s worst hit in the long term by the COVID-19 economic crisis.”
Related: Refinancing in tricky situations
“We know from previous downturns that it takes four times longer for our industry to recover than the rest of the economy.”
In addition to the home boost grant, this proposed stimulus package would also include funding for renovations to make homes more resilient to natural disasters and funding for commercial programs, such as cladding and asbestos rectification.
Under the proposed stimulus package, a $13.2 billion investment from the Australian government would deliver:
- $30.9 billion in GDP growth;
- 105,500 jobs in construction and across the economy; and
- $17.6 billion in expanded construction activity (new dwelling starts, renovations and commercial construction activity
Their proposal comes only a week after the Property Council of Australia lobbied the ‘New Home Boost’ scheme.
How can the property industry kickstart the Australian economy after COVID-19? Our Seven Point Plan for Economic Recovery sets out ideas on boosting new housing construction, broad-based tax reform, infrastructure investment, immigration & more. Read more https://t.co/WPZWO8bZR8 pic.twitter.com/VKZeyNKPJ1
— Property Council (@PropertyCouncil) May 19, 2020
“There is no time to spare in meeting this threat to the viability of nearly 400,000 building businesses and the jobs of 1.2 million people employed in our industry.”
Ms Wawn added Master Builders wanted to see a dedicated building and construction industry taskforce established to oversee the implementation of the stimulus package.
“For stimulus to occur building activity needs to commence. Builders and tradies cannot sustain their businesses and jobs on promises,” Ms Wawn said.
“We have seen that governments can fast track construction activity in response to natural disasters and COVID-19 is shaping up as an economic disaster.”
You might also like: First Home Buyers are Still Active on the Property Market
Words by Ece Demir
Sources:
Builders call on Government to introduce $40k uncapped new home building grant
Government pushed to introduce $50k grant for buyers of newly built homes
New home boost: $50k to home builders proposed as RBA raises property concerns
On the lookout for a new home? Try contacting an eChoice broker. With access to 100s of mortgage products from over 25 lenders, eChoice brokers have the resources to find YOU the right home loan deal.