OTTAWA -- As Canada confronts its escalating housing crisis, the government is gearing up to launch a new agency aimed at accelerating the construction of homes. Internal documents highlight the severity of the housing situation, indicating that skyrocketing housing costs are not only inflating the economy but also complicating housing accessibility for many Canadians.

Briefing materials prepared for incoming Housing Minister Gregor Robertson in May 2025 emphasize that the government has fallen short in investing in below-market housing options. This lack of investment is significantly impacting newcomers and vulnerable populations in Canada, making it increasingly difficult for these groups to secure affordable living spaces.

Government statistics reveal that the cost of building an average home in Canada has surged by 58 percent since 2020. Experts warn that these costs may continue to increase due to ongoing tariffs from the United States, which further complicates the housing landscape in Canada.

In response to these challenges, the federal government plans to establish the Build Canada Homes agency. This new agency is intended to expedite affordable home construction across the country while also promoting the adoption of innovative building technologies amongst construction firms.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced during a Liberal caucus retreat earlier this week that the launch of this agency is imminent. The government's goal is to address the urgent need for affordable housing more effectively and to reverse the current trends that are proving detrimental to many Canadians.

This significant initiative reflects the government's acknowledgment of the housing crisis and its commitment to finding solutions that prioritize the needs of vulnerable communities and help facilitate the integration of newcomers into Canadian society.