An election platform says much about what a political party thinks will win them votes. And if we had to guess? They might be betting that young people aren’t paying attention this time.
They may not be wrong—some stats suggest fewer than half of youth voted in the last federal election.
But here’s the twist: if young Canadians do show up, they could swing the ENTIRE outcome. As the largest voting bloc in the country, their priorities matter. And right now? Affordable housing tops the list. With rents breaking records, options shrinking and “starter home” feeling like an ancient myth, this election is a rare chance to demand real change.
So, we dug into the party platforms. We wanted to know who’s promising what on housing, and how their plans might reshape urban living for young people.
Credit: Elections Canada
Bloc Québécois
Wants to give Quebec more control. Calls for $1.2B investment of federal funds with no strings attached, 20% non-market housing, and long-term support for low-income housing.
Conservatives
Market first, government second. Proposes a “Build Homes Not Bureaucracy Act,” tying federal funds to housing output, selling off 15% of federal land, and cutting GST on new rentals.
Green Party
Housing is a human right. Pushing for a massive public housing program, ending tax breaks for REITs, and locking in affordability forever.
Liberals
Go big or go home. Aims to double housing output with prefab investments, $25B in financing, and a new standalone agency: Build Canada Homes.
NDP
All in on renters and non-market housing. Promises 3M homes by 2030, national rent control, and major expansions to the Canada Rental Protection Fund.
Missing piece: What about coliving?
Here’s what we noticed: not one major party platform mentions alternative housing development as viable options—to be more specific, coliving. And honestly? That’s a missed opportunity.
Coliving offers exactly what these plans say they want: faster, more affordable, community-focused housing that supports youth, reduces waste and brings energy back to urban centres. And it’s not a hypothetical—it’s already working in cities around the world. With 82% of young Canadians open to it, this is a solution begging for a seat at the policy table.
So why is no one talking about it?
If we want housing that’s built for connection, affordability and sustainability—we need to get coliving into the conversation.
Credit: Elections Canada
Why this matters to us
At Toboggan Flats, we believe housing isn’t just about four walls—it’s about belonging, community and possibility. But right now, young people are being priced out of that possibility.
In fact, 51% of Canadian youth say monthly cost is the most important factor when choosing where to live. And yet, rent keeps rising while affordable options shrink. No wonder so many feel stuck—unable to move out, save up or get ahead.
We don’t want to just survive in the housing market. We want to thrive.
So, as you prepare to VOTE on April 28, ask yourself: What kind of future are we voting for? One where housing is transactional—or transformational?
Your vote is your voice. Let’s use it.
Stay informed
Want to dig deeper?
We’ve created a detailed report that breaks down each party’s housing proposals, along with our analysis to help you get started.
[button: Download the election housing analysis]
But remember, our perspective is just one piece of the puzzle. We encourage you to use your best judgment, do your research and form your own opinions.
Together, let’s shape the conversation around housing in Canada.
