Senate Study: How Well Are Federal Housing Programs Working?

Official title: Examine and report on federal programs and initiatives to support the creation of housing

open Policy & Studies Finance & Consumer Housing & Communities
The Senate's National Finance Committee is examining whether federal housing programs are actually helping create more homes. They want to know what's working, what's not, and where tax dollars could be better spent. This is your chance to tell Parliament directly what you've seen on the ground.

Why This Matters

Struggling to find an affordable place to live? You're not alone. The federal government spends billions on housing programs, but rents keep climbing and homes stay out of reach for many. This Senate study could reshape how that money gets spent. If you've dealt with housing programs—as a renter, homebuyer, builder, or advocate—your experience matters here.

What Could Change

The committee's findings could lead to changes in how CMHC programs operate, how housing funds flow to provinces and cities, or whether new incentives get created for builders. Senate reports often influence federal budget priorities. Programs that aren't delivering results could be restructured or replaced.

Key Issues

  • Are federal housing programs effectively increasing housing supply?
  • Which initiatives are delivering results and which are falling short?
  • How should federal housing spending be prioritized?

How to Participate

  1. Visit the committee page to learn about the study and check for upcoming meetings.
  2. Review the guidance for witnesses if you want to appear before the committee or submit a brief.
  3. Submit a written brief through the Briefs & other documents section.

Key Documents