Asia’s affordable housing problem

Australia's government is winding back tax incentives for property investors in a bid to make housing more affordable - but will it work? From Sydney to Seoul, Bangkok to Beijing, housing affordability has become one of the biggest economic and political issues facing young people across Asia Pacific. In many major cities, home prices have risen far faster than incomes, leaving many first-time buyers feeling locked out of the market. Australia is now changing long-standing tax rules that critics say encouraged property investment and pushed up prices. But will those reforms actually make housing more affordable? And what lessons can be learned from other countries that have tried to intervene? In this episode, Mariko Oi speaks to Asia Specific editor Bill Birtles and BBC Journalist Abhiram Subramaniam about Australia's housing reforms, the affordability crisis across Asia, why governments from South Korea to China have struggled to bring prices under control. They also explore Singapore's unique public housing system, where around 80% of residents live in government-built homes, and ask whether the model could ever be replicated elsewhere. Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt Get in touch: asiaspecific@bbc.co.uk