Media Statements

Joint Statement - Homebuilder support expanded following Liberals and Nationals advocacy

Joint Statement – Housing approvals plummet proving Labor’s target is a con

Evan Mulholland, Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability

James Newbury, Shadow Minister for Planning

6 March 2024.

Nearly two months after the collapse of Montego Homes left over fifty Victorian homebuyers stranded, the Allan Labor Government has finally expanded its support scheme.

Under existing Victorian legislation, no money, including deposit money, is payable under a domestic building contract before a suitable domestic building insurance (DBI) policy has been issued.

However, the collapse of Porter Davis revealed widespread non-compliance with Victoria’s DBI requirements, including by Montego Homes.

After continuous advocacy from the Liberals and Nationals standing alongside homebuyers, Labor has expanded its Liquidated Builders Customer Support Payment Scheme up until 20 February 2024, covering those impacted by the collapse of Montego Homes.

Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability, Evan Mulholland, said: “This a welcome albeit belated move by the Allan Labor Government, however the scheme shouldn’t cease until Victorians can have confidence that DBI compliance will be rigorously enforced.

“Homebuyers looking to purchase shouldn’t face uncertainty, and families already impacted must have their claims processed as a matter of urgency.”

Shadow Minister for Planning, James Newbury, said: “Jacinta Allan must guarantee that no more families will be impacted by further compliance failures, otherwise Victorians will ask why Labor’s support scheme ended on 20 February.

“The truth is Labor dragged its heels in extending this scheme because it cannot manage money and homebuyers are paying the price.”

James Newbury, Shadow Minister for Planning

Evan Mulholland, Shadow Minister for Home Ownership and Housing Affordability