The evolution of government housing policy : the case of New South Wales 1901-1941

Abstract

This paper reviews the development of four main threads of housing policy in New South Wales from the latter part of the nineteenth century through the first forty years of the twentieth century. Through a discussion of the social and political circumstances and debate surrounding government policy regarding landlord/tenant relations, housing quality and supply, and owner occupancy; it argues that policy evolution is irregular and a product of the exigencies of the political process. It also argues that although government policy did little to improve the housing situation for the underprivileged, there was nevertheless a growing acceptance by both Labor and conservative parties of the increased need for government intervention in the housing market.