The Greens are seizing on analysis showing most investors prefer existing dwellings over new builds to argue for housing reform.
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More than 80 per cent of investor finance went to buying existing dwellings, while the rest went towards the construction and purchase of new homes between 2019 and 2023, Australian Bureau of Statistics data reviewed by the Parliamentary Library shows.
The minor party is steadfastly against the government's signature Housing Australia Future Fund, in a bid to wring more money for social housing out of the budget and push for rental reform.
Greens housing spokesman Max Chandler-Mather also maintains his call for a rent freeze as a sticking point in negotiations with the government, something that state and territory governments have ruled out.
The government and economists have slammed the proposed rent freeze, saying it would impact supply by scaring investors out of the market.
Mr Chandler-Mather said the fact such a small portion of investment went to helping boost supply means the government's argument about supply doesn't make sense.
"The bottom line is if we want to tackle this housing crisis then we need to freeze and cap rent increases," he said.
The Greens also want to phase out negative gearing and cut capital gains tax concessions.
Meanwhile, parliament will debate on Monday a bill from Indi MP Helen Haines calling for greater federal investment in infrastructure to unlock rural and regional housing projects.
Dr Haines has already presented the prime minister with the plan for a dedicated regional housing infrastructure fund, but wants parliament's approval.
The Victorian independent MP says not-for-profit housing providers face costs to develop housing in regional Australia that they would not face in big cities.
Australian Associated Press
