NAB Pledges $39.3 Billion to Tackle Housing Shortage

National Australia Bank (NAB) has announced plans to lend at least A$60 billion (around $39.31 billion) over the next five years to help alleviate Australia’s housing crisis.

The bank estimates that its funding could support 55,000 loans for first-time homebuyers and facilitate the development of approximately 50,000 new homes.

In an open letter, NAB CEO Andre Irvine said the financing aims to improve housing affordability by 2030, addressing what he described as Australia’s “biggest societal and policy challenge.”

Of the total amount, A$30 billion ($19.65 billion) will be directed towards commercial real estate projects with predominantly residential use. This includes specialist accommodation such as build-to-rent properties, student housing, land lease communities, and community housing projects.

The remaining A$30 billion is earmarked for first-time homebuyers under the Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme.

Irvine emphasised that Australia is not building enough homes to meet demand, adding that NAB recognises the opportunity to play a pivotal role in tackling the housing shortage.

Sydney, 22 December 2025 – National Australia Bank (NAB) has unveiled plans to lend at least A$60 billion (approximately $39.31 billion) over the next five years, aiming to address Australia’s ongoing housing affordability challenges.

The bank estimates that this funding could support around 55,000 loans for first-time homebuyers and facilitate the construction of approximately 50,000 new homes.

In an open letter, NAB CEO Andre Irvine described the initiative as a crucial step to improve housing affordability by 2030, calling the crisis “Australia’s biggest societal and policy challenge.” He added that the bank recognises its opportunity to play a pivotal role in easing the national housing shortage.

Of the total funding, A$30 billion ($19.65 billion) will be allocated to commercial real estate projects with predominantly residential use, including specialist accommodation such as build-to-rent properties, student housing, land lease communities, and community housing projects. The remaining A$30 billion is earmarked for first-time homebuyers under the Australian Government’s 5% Deposit Scheme, supporting families in entering the property market.

Irvine emphasised that Australia is not building enough homes to meet current and future demand, highlighting the importance of strategic financing and investment in residential development.