The Australian housing market continues to show signs of life as new data from the Bureau of Statistics reveals a modest uptick in home approvals, though still below pre-pandemic levels. Approvals for higher-density housing have notably rebounded following a concerning dip, offering a glimmer of hope for the construction sector.

According to the latest figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there has been a notable increase in approvals for private sector houses across most states in March. This resurgence in approvals for new semi-detached, row, terrace houses, townhouses, and apartments marks a significant turnaround from the 12-year low witnessed in February.

In March, a total of 12,947 new dwellings received approval, reflecting a continued decline from the peak observed in March 2021 when 23,000 new homes were approved. However, the recent uptick in approvals suggests a gradual recovery in the housing market, albeit at a restrained pace.

The average value of a newly approved house in March stands at nearly $469,000, indicating a resilient market amidst ongoing challenges. Notably, close to 4000 new semi-detached houses, townhouses, and apartments were greenlit for construction, contributing to the overall improvement in the housing sector.

While the overall number of dwellings approved rose by 1.9 per cent in March (seasonally adjusted), some states experienced contrasting trends. Tasmania witnessed a significant 18 per cent drop in approvals, while South Australia recorded a seven per cent decline. In contrast, Victoria emerged as a frontrunner with a notable increase of 3.2 per cent in overall dwelling approvals for the month.

The rebound in approvals for new higher-density housing comes as a relief following the previous month's slump. February saw approvals hitting a 12-year low, raising concerns about the resilience of the construction industry. However, March's figures indicate a partial recovery, with the total value of approved buildings bouncing back by 15.9 per cent, offsetting the previous month's decline.

The average value of a new approved house in March hovers around $468,781, underscoring the stability of the housing market amidst fluctuating economic conditions. The rise in residential building values, coupled with increases in alterations and additions, further reinforces the sector's resilience in the face of challenges.

As Australia navigates through economic uncertainties, the housing market's gradual recovery offers a ray of hope for stakeholders. While challenges persist, the recent uptick in approvals signals a potential turning point, laying the groundwork for sustained growth in the construction sector.

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