In the European Union, there has been a notable surge in house prices, with an increase of up to 45 per cent observed from 2010 to 2022. This trend is reflective of the situation in Malta, where escalating property prices and rental costs present challenges for low-income families. These challenges not only affect the quality of housing accessible to them but also impact their ability to maintain a decent standard of living and provide for their families.

As this issue continues to deepen, the leadership of Malta's Housing Authority, under the guidance of CEO Matthew Zerafa, has adopted a strategic approach to ensure broader access to quality housing that is within reach for more individuals. In addition to its traditional role in social housing allocation, the Housing Authority has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing affordability and accessibility across a wider spectrum of families.

Furthermore, the Authority is actively engaged in diverse projects designed to improve community well-being and the quality of life with inclusive design considerations catering to the needs of various demographics, such as the elderly and marginalized groups. These efforts are in alignment with Malta’s rental reforms, which have implemented basic standards to professionalise the residential rental sector. Overall, this comprehensive strategy aims to facilitate housing acquisition through tailored schemes that accommodate unique circumstances and financial constraints.

To address the evolving needs of Malta's diverse population, the Housing Authority has conducted thorough analyses considering metrics such as age, income, and family composition. These insights facilitate informed decision-making processes when revising existing schemes or introducing new initiatives. Consequently, Malta has maintained a commendable homeownership rate within the EU, reaching 82.6 per cent in 2022.

Matthew Zerafa, the CEO, emphasises the adaptive nature of their schemes, citing the equity-sharing initiative as an example. Recognising the financial challenges faced by older individuals amidst family breakdowns, the Authority introduced a scheme wherein it partners with buyers to jointly purchase properties. This initiative has successfully aided over 200 families, addressing the specific needs of this demographic.

Looking ahead, Mr Zerafa envisions fundamental changes within the Housing Authority to enhance its capabilities in addressing future housing needs. Beginning this year, the Authority is initiating a digitisation process, integrating new systems and Business Intelligence tools into its operations. The implementation of a document management system and the digitisation of paperwork aim to streamline processes, improve response times, and deliver enhanced services to stakeholders.

Mr Zerafa highlights the significance of this digital transformation, noting its potential to facilitate data-driven decision-making. Through partnerships with institutions like the National Statistics Office, the Inland Revenue, and the Malta Police Force, among others, the Authority aims to leverage data-sharing agreements to enhance enforcement efficiency in the sector.

In addition to enhancing public-facing services, internal restructuring efforts are underway within the Housing Authority to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped for the future. Initiatives include comprehensive training and development programs for employees and the implementation of a telework policy aligned with the Authority’s digitisation efforts, allowing for flexible work arrangements based on measurable outcomes.

Mr Zerafa underscores the Housing Authority's commitment to continuous improvement, guided by its core pillars of People, Property, and Strategy. He expresses confidence in the Authority's capacity to refine policies and processes, ensuring ongoing service enhancements to meet the evolving housing needs of Malta's citizens.