Episode 31 - Unlocking Housing Supply Through Tax Reform

In this episode, Richard Temlett sits down with one of Australia’s most respected economic voices, Dr Ken Henry, to unpack one of the most critical issues facing the nation today - how taxation reform could help solve the housing crisis. Dr Henry reflects on the landmark Australia’s Future Tax System Review 2009, why it was commissioned, what it proposed and how much (or how little) has been implemented since. We explore the key recommendations that could reshape Australia’s housing landscape, including replacing stamp duty with annual land tax, reforming negative gearing and capital gains tax, and removing distortions that influence buyer behaviour. Dr Henry also discusses the political and practical realities of reform, outlining the role both federal and state governments need to play if we are to tackle the root causes of the housing crisis, not just its symptoms. This is a rare and insightful conversation that connects tax, housing and long-term economic strategy. Dr Ken Henry AC FASSA FAIIA is one of Australia’s most influential economic policy leaders. He served as Secretary to the Treasury from 2001 to 2011 and chaired several landmark reviews including the 1997–98 Howard Government tax review, the 2010 Rudd Government tax review, and the Gillard Government’s Australia in the Asian Century White Paper. He has held senior roles across both the public and private sectors, including Chair of National Australia Bank and has been a non-executive director of ASX Limited. Today, Dr Henry chairs the Australian Climate and Biodiversity Foundation and serves on multiple boards focused on climate, finance and biodiversity. Dr Henry holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Canterbury and is a Companion of the Order of Australia. Tune in to hear how bold tax reform could unlock new pathways to housing affordability and a more resilient economic future.