Move to stimulate the property industry by the Liberals welcomed

A move by the Liberals to waive water and sewerage head work charges for two years, if
elected to office, has been welcomed by the Property Council of Australia.

Tasmanian Executive Director, Mary Massina said members had been reporting dramatic
increases in water and sewerage headwork charges in recent times and this initiative would
free up millions of dollars of investment.

“The move to waive water and sewerage head works charges for developments for two
years will mean many tens of millions of dollars of investment, bringing with it the creation
of much needed jobs,” Ms Massina said.

“As most people are aware, Tasmania has been doing it tough in recent times especially
the property and construction industry.

“The State Government’s Jobs Package Initiative of the First Home Builders Boost of $8,000
was a welcome move however, it appears that it has been swallowed up by dramatically
increased headwork charges for utilities such as water and sewerage.

“In one example we are aware of an investor being quoted $8,000 per block for water and
sewerage, as well as, being required to upgrade existing infrastructure at their own cost.

“These increasing charges push up housing prices and act as a barrier to entry for young
Tasmanians seeking to get their first step on the housing ladder.”

Ms Massina said the decision to waive headwork charges for some two years would go a
significant way to stimulating the property and construction sector.
Property Council Tasmania Executive Director Mary Massina