The ICSH was established in 1982 as the voluntary housing federation, representing 74 bodies then providing circa 2,000 social homes – a sector described at the time as the ‘third arm’ of national housing policy. In 2016, AHBs had more than 32,000 homes in ownership and management. Eight years later, AHB housing stock has more than doubled. More than a third (11,939) of all housing delivered in 2023 (32,695) was social and cost rental housing. We’re calling on the incoming government to commit to a number of reforms to ensure approved housing bodies (AHBs) can continue to deliver and grow our secure and affordable housing and supports for the increasing number of people who need them.
- Reform the Capital Assistance Scheme
- Establish a Dedicated AHB Retrofitting Budget
- Remove AHBs from the State Balance Sheet
- Progress Reform of the Multi-Unit Developments Act 2011
- Remediation of Apartments and Duplexes
- Increase the Cost Rental Equity Loan Funding for 2025
- Progress the Housing with Care Model
- Clear Pathway for Implementing Housing Commission Recommendations
