Change tax mix for cheaper houses

Community services advocates want governments to tackle capital gains tax and get rid of stamp duties so that housing becomes more affordable.

The Australian Council of Social Service and housing and tenant organisations are proposing a plan to tackle housing affordability through tax reform, opening up more housing stock and giving more security to renters.

ACOSS chief executive Cassandra Goldie says governments need to see housing as a national infrastructure priority since shortfalls are putting a brake on productivity.