Policy Briefs – Affordability Action Council

Rethinking Urban Mobility: Providing More Affordable and Equitable Transportation Options

Transportation is one of the largest expenses for households alongside housing and food. It also represents the second-largest source of greenhouse-gas emissions in Canada. To provide affordable, clean-energy transportation options to lower-income Canadians, the federal government should revise its electric-vehicle incentive program and provide sustainable operating funding for transit systems. … Read More

Rural Recognition: Affordable and Safe Transportation Options for Remote Communities

More than four million Canadians live in low-density areas, which include rural, remote, Indigenous and northern communities. Most have few transportation options aside from driving a personal vehicle. For those who cannot drive because of cost, age or ability, the lack of options can exacerbate inequities and increase risks to … Read More

Groceries and Essentials Benefit: Helping People with Low Incomes Afford Everyday Necessities

Almost seven million people in Canada — including almost two million children — do not have stable access to sufficient food. Recent increases in food, rent, energy and transportation prices have outpaced incomes, leaving little left over at the end of the month. It’s often easier to cut back on … Read More

Affordable Housing Reboot: Bring Back Federal Leadership

To provide affordable housing to those who need it most, the federal government should aim to build one million rent-geared-to-income community homes by 2030 and reboot the not-for-profit and co-operative housing sector. To align with climate-change goals and provide lasting affordability, these homes should be built near public transit and … Read More

Retrofit Reset: Prioritize Low-Income Households

To reduce energy costs and climate risks faced by low-income households, the federal government should establish a new free retrofit program aimed at making about 100,000 homes per year more affordable, energy efficient and climate resilient. Low-income households are more likely to live in older, drafty homes without air conditioning. … Read More