Australia’s building approvals fell steeply in December 2025, driven by a 29.8 percent drop in private sector non-house approvals, while house approvals rose slightly to 9,487.
Though full-year figures hit 195,700 dwellings—the highest since COVID times—critics like former MP Craig Kelly demanded Housing Minister Clare O’Neil’s resignation over the volatility.
Economist Michael Arbon proposed waiving stamp duty for over-55s downsizing from large homes, noting surveys show 85 percent have spare bedrooms, though skeptics point to New Zealand’s similar issues despite no such tax.
