Fijians are set to see significant developments in housing in the upcoming 2025–2026 National Budget. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, stressed the urgent need to address the country’s housing shortage, an issue that has been neglected for too long. Current data from the Public Rental Board indicates an annual demand for approximately 1,600 housing units.
In response to this pressing challenge, the forthcoming budget will allocate increased funding specifically for housing projects. Professor Prasad reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackle this national issue directly.
This emphasis on housing aligns with initiatives highlighted in previous articles, notably the government’s acknowledgment of the housing supply shortfall and its commitment to increasing affordable housing options. The 2024-2025 National Budget allocated $13.5 million for the formalization of informal settlements and initiated a tender for the construction of 3,000 housing units across five sites managed by the Housing Authority. Locations referenced include Nepani, Raiwaqa, Davuilevu, Wainibuku, and Tavakubu.
The ongoing National Housing Policy for 2025-2030 aims to address these complex issues, focusing on enhancing housing availability, affordability, and overall access. Collaborative efforts involved in this policy emphasize working with private sector partners and government agencies to improve living conditions.
As these initiatives progress, Fijians can remain hopeful that these significant investments in the housing sector will pave the way for more stable and accessible living conditions, moving towards a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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