July 21st, 2026Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) review of the Housing Australia Future Fund
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has welcomed the release of the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) review of the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) and Treasury’s acceptance of all five recommendations – aimed at strengthening the program’s governance, performance measurement and public reporting.
HIA Managing Director, Jocelyn Martin, said the audit provided a constructive roadmap for improving transparency and ensuring the fund remains focused on delivering more homes.
“The ANAO has identified several practical improvements that will strengthen the Housing Australia Future Fund, and we welcome Treasury’s decision to accept all five recommendations,” Ms Martin said.
“The first three recommendations focus on governance, risk management and administrative oversight. Strong governance is important for any major government program and these recommendations will help ensure the fund is managed effectively.
“Of particular importance are the recommendations relating to performance measurement and public reporting.
“Australians deserve to know not only how much funding is being committed, but whether the program is delivering homes efficiently, on time and in the locations where they are most needed.”
The audit found Treasury’s design of the HAFF had been largely effective, but highlighted shortcomings in performance monitoring, public reporting and transparency around delivery outcomes. Ms Martin said stronger reporting would improve accountability and help identify barriers preventing projects from progressing.
“Clear and transparent reporting on dwelling delivery, project timelines and funding outcomes will provide greater confidence that the program is achieving its objectives,” she said.
“It will also help government, industry and community housing providers better understand where improvements are required and what is working well.
“At a time when housing supply remains one of the nation’s biggest challenges, it is essential that public investment programs are focused on outcomes and continuous improvement.
While welcoming the recommendations, Ms Martin said broader concerns raised by industry about the operation of the HAFF should not be overlooked.
“The audit should not mark the end of the conversation about how the HAFF can be improved,” Ms Martin said.
