Extending HDB Family Nucleus Eligibility to Cover Extended Family Caregiving Relationships, and Tracking Outcomes of Eligibility Appeals

62 Mr Alex Yeo asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether HDB tracks the grounds of appeal for family nucleus eligibility, particularly those by extended family members or by legal guardianship; (b) if so, how many of such appeals were received and approved; and (c) whether HDB will consider recognising extended family caregiving relationships and guardianships for family nucleus eligibility in its housing policies.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: Given limited housing supply, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) prioritises housing for families comprising immediate family members involving spouse, parent(s) or child(ren). Non-immediate family members have other options, such as buying a flat together under the Joint Singles Scheme.

Since the implementation of the HDB Flat Eligibility letter in May 2023, HDB has not acceded to any appeals for non-immediate family members to form a family nucleus.

We will continue to review our policies to balance between ensuring fair and sustainable allocation of public housing resources and supporting diverse caregiving arrangements.