Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is facing criticism after purchasing a multi-million-dollar cliff-top home amid a nationwide housing crisis. The timing of the purchase, just months before an election where key issues include the rising cost of living and housing affordability, has drawn sharp rebukes from across the political spectrum.
Opponents have labeled the move "tone deaf," while some members of Albanese's own party, speaking anonymously to local media, have expressed shock. The criticism revolves around the optics of acquiring a luxury property while many Australians are struggling to afford homes.
Albanese defended his decision, stating that he understands the challenges of financial hardship, having grown up in public housing. He explained that the purchase, located on the New South Wales Central Coast, was made to be closer to his fiancée Jodie Haydon’s family. Property records indicate the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home in Copacabana, with panoramic ocean views, was sold for A$4.3 million (US$2.9 million, £2.2 million), though the transaction is yet to be finalized.
At a press conference on housing, coinciding with the news of his purchase, Albanese acknowledged that his current financial situation is better than many Australians but emphasized that he remains empathetic to their struggles. "My mum lived in public housing for all of her 65 years," he told reporters. "I know what it’s like, and that’s why I’m committed to helping all Australians achieve homeownership."
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Albanese's Labor government has introduced a A$10 billion investment fund aimed at boosting social and affordable housing. However, other housing policies have faced challenges in parliament, with the Australian Greens and some independents calling for more ambitious and comprehensive measures.
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