Wednesday, 13 August 2025

Ministers statements: working from home

Sonya KILKENNY (Carrum – Attorney-General, Minister for Planning) (14:28): I rise to update the house on how the Allan Labor government is delivering more homes for Victorian families. But this is not just about bricks and mortar; it is about investing in the future of work, supporting Victorian families and building stronger, more connected local communities. Our Plan for Victoria sets out a bold and ambitious vision: 2.24 million new homes by 2051. These are not just any homes; they are homes close to public transport, shops, schools, essential services and local jobs, with 60 new train and tram zones across Melbourne, delivering 300,000 new homes in great locations. And in our growth areas we have released the longest ever pipeline of land – 180,000 new homes with backyards. To make this happen faster we are cutting red tape, with the townhouse code and the single-home code speeding up approvals for well-designed homes that meet high standards.

But this is not just about building more homes. We are also paving the way for more home offices by protecting the right for Victorians to work from home two days a week. With more homes and more home offices, we are making it easier for Victorians to find a place to call their own and supporting them to spend precious time with their loved ones and in their communities, helping Victorians save $110 a week, giving Victorians greater control over their work–life balance – less time in traffic, more time with family and in their local neighbourhoods, supporting local business. Working from home is not just good for families, it works for everyone. It is good for our economy and for the heart of our local communities. Those opposite continue to block more homes. They refuse to support Victorian families. We say yes to more homes and yes to working from home.