Policy Address

Increase Public Housing Supply

208. In the five years starting from 2026-27 onwards, the overall public housing production (including LPH) will reach 189 000 units, about 80% higher than when I took office. Three years ago, PRH applicants had to wait 6.1 years on average before they were offered PRH. With our efforts over the past three years or so, the Composite Waiting Time for Subsidised Rental Housing has been shortened by a whole year to 5.1 years, and we are moving closer to the target of reducing it to 4.5 years in 2026-27. Subdivided unit (SDU) households can improve their living conditions by moving into PRH or LPH units one year earlier, while saving about $36,000 or $50,000 in rent on average per year respectively.

209. Three years ago, I announced the launch of 30 000 LPH units. About 10 000 of them will be completed for intake by the end of this year. The remaining 20 000 units will be completed in the coming year and a half.

210. The Basic Housing Unit regulatory regime, designed to eradicate substandard SDUs, is being scrutinised by the LegCo. Subject to passage of the bill, the regime will be implemented in March next year.