A Senate inquiry is examining the 50% capital gains tax discount on investment properties held for more than a year, with hearings scheduled over three days. The Housing Industry Association's Chief Economist argues that reducing the tax concession from 50% to potentially 25% will not solve housing affordability issues, as the fundamental problem is insufficient housing supply for Australia's 27 million population. The economist contends that building more homes would generate government revenue of $200,000 to $500,000 per dwelling while simultaneously addressing equity concerns and reducing investor competition.