✦ Plain-English Summary

National Rental Affordability Scheme Amendment 2019

What it does

This amendment updates the law that governs the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) — a government program designed to increase the supply of affordable rental housing. The bill modifies how the scheme operates and clarifies its objectives, though the full details of the changes are in a separate schedule not shown in this excerpt.

Why it matters

The NRAS helps make rental housing more affordable for low-to-moderate income Australians by offering tax incentives to investors who build or renovate properties to rent at below-market rates. Updating the scheme keeps it relevant and functional as rental pressures continue.

Key details

• Commencement: Most changes take effect the day after the bill receives Royal Assent, though some provisions (items 6, 12, 17, and 21) require a separate proclamation to begin — with a 12-month deadline or they activate automatically
• What changes: The bill restructures the stated objectives of the original 2008 Act, suggesting clearer goals for how the scheme should work
• Scope: This applies to anyone involved in the NRAS — landlords, investors, and potentially tenants benefiting from affordable rental properties

Official Description

Amends the National Rental Affordability Scheme Act 2008 to: expand and clarify the object of the National Rental Affordability Scheme; expressly identify the constitutional powers being relied upon and giving the Act operation within the scope of those constitutional powers; and expand and clarify the power to make regulations under the Act.

No formal division recorded

This bill passed by voice vote — parliament agreed without calling a formal count. A division is only recorded when a member explicitly requests one.

No votes yet.

No votes were recorded for this bill.