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Missed Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s first National Day Rally speech on new housing measures?
No worries for we’ve got you with this post.
Here are the highlights you need to know.
Good news for singles
With families in mind, singles will now have priority access to new homes.
Starting in mid-2025, singles looking to live near loved ones will receive priority when applying for Build-to-Order (BTO) flats.
This change was recently announced by PM Wong.
We all know that housing is one huge topic for many living in Singapore.
In his first National Day Rally speech, PM Wong reaffirmed the government’s commitment to affordable, accessible public housing.
Currently, only those 35 and above can purchase new two-room Flexi HDB units as singles.
Recognizing this limit, PM Wong asked how more could be done for singles.
The solution?
Grant them the same priority now given to married children who apply within 4 km of their parent’s home.
This means singles stand a better chance at balloting for a new build near family.
As PM Wong shared, many singles also wish to care for aging parents so this update ensures all children, whether married or not, can more easily live close by.
Lower-income couples received good news too
The Central Provident Fund (CPF) Housing Grant, assisting first-time buyers, will see its maximum amount increased.
This extra support helps more young Singaporeans purchase their first affordable home.
“This is my assurance to all young Singaporeans: Once you start work and wish to settle down, we will make sure that there is an HDB flat that is within your budget in every region,” PM Wong noted.
“We will always keep public housing in Singapore affordable for you.”
National Development Minister Desmond Lee will announce more details soon so stay tuned to the news.
Seniors, too, are not forgotten
Additional housing options have also been created for seniors.
For instance, the brand new Harmony Village @ Bukit Batok, ready to be moved in later this year, combines apartments and care services.
Image Credits: Facebook/Desmond Lee
More such developments are planned to help the older generation age gracefully.
Recovering from the pandemic
In addition, PM Wong acknowledged past housing woes stemmed from COVID-19 disruptions.
But steady progress has been made on new construction and all delayed projects should be completed by early 2025.
This will satisfy pent-up demand while stabilizing prices.
Meanwhile, the special focus remains on keeping HDB flats attainable long-term.
Upcoming policy refinements aim to shorten waiting periods for BTOs and make prime locations feasible for all.
The government is working on its public housing mission and helping citizens realize their home dreams.
