Australia’s housing shortage could continue for another seven years, with Federal Opposition Treasury spokesman Angus Taylor warning that the crisis may stretch until 2033 unless the government changes its migration and housing policies.

Taylor says Labor’s current settings are failing to keep pace with population growth and the country’s ability to build enough new homes. He argues that high migration levels, construction delays and planning restrictions have created a growing gap between housing demand and supply.

The warning comes as the Albanese government faces renewed pressure over its migration strategy and efforts to address housing affordability. Taylor claims that even if Labor meets its own net overseas migration targets, shortages will remain for years, putting further pressure on renters and first-home buyers.

He says the imbalance is contributing to record-high rents, limited housing availability and increasing difficulty for Australians trying to enter the property market. Taylor has accused the government of lacking a clear plan to rapidly increase housing supply and ensure infrastructure keeps up with population growth.

Housing Minister Tony Burke and the federal government have defended their approach, arguing that migration supports critical workforce needs, including industries such as construction, healthcare and aged care. Labor says it is working with states and territories through housing agreements and investment programs aimed at increasing the supply of new homes.

However, the Coalition says the government’s policies are not addressing the immediate concerns facing families struggling with rising rents and limited housing options.

The debate comes as vacancy rates remain low across many Australian cities, while renters continue to face intense competition for available properties. Industry groups have also highlighted challenges including construction costs, labour shortages and planning delays as barriers to delivering more homes.

Taylor’s warning has intensified the political battle over housing affordability, with the Coalition calling for changes to migration settings, faster approvals and increased housing construction. The government says its long-term plan will address supply pressures while maintaining economic growth.

With housing remaining one of Australia’s biggest cost-of-living concerns, both major parties are under pressure to present solutions that can deliver relief sooner.