Australia’s 50% capital gains tax (CGT) discount for individuals (introduced in 1999) has come under renewed scrutiny, with a broad coalition calling for reform to ease the housing affordability crisis, bolster the federal budget, and improve intergenerational equity.
The push spans economists, think tanks, former regulators, international bodies, the New South Wales Treasurer, and even some property‑sector voices.
Those calling for reform widely argue that the 50% discount encourages speculative property investment, makes leveraged property more attractive than other asset classes, and pushes first‑home buyers into direct competition with investors.
