From: George [gguelfi@cyllene.uwa.edu.au]
Sent: 3 August 2003 21:08
To: maps@pc.gov.au
Subject: Housing Affordability Review

The HIA concerns about rising housing costs are commendable but to
single out TAX as the only issue is not correct.

The HIA did nothing to protect the homeowner when the HIA members
increased the house prices in WA by up to 15% prior to the introduction
of the GST due to labour shortages.

On the 1 July 2000 HIA members added the GST to the house prices ie
house prices went up 25% (15% +10%) in about 18 months.

Regards
George Guelfi