Singles to get priority access to BTO flats under new Family Care Scheme

Singles applying for Build-To-Order (BTO) flats will get priority access when they buy a home near or with their parents under a new scheme that kicks in from mid-2025.

Currently, priority access is reserved only for married couples and their parents.

The latest move is meant to bolster intergenerational support among families, National Development Minister Desmond Lee said at a community dialogue session on Nov 6.

Mr Lee said parents and their children—regardless of marital status—will have priority access when they apply for new flats under the upcoming Family Care Scheme (FCS).

"We recognise that caring for one's parents is important, regardless of whether you are married or single. In fact, adult children who are single tend to carry a heavier burden of caring for ageing parents," Mr Lee said, speaking at The Frontier Community Club in Jurong West.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong first announced the Government's intention to open up priority access to singles during the National Day Rally in August.

The new scheme will combine three current priority schemes for married couples, parents and seniors, and will have two components.

The FCS (Proximity), which will be implemented in mid-2025, gives parents and their children priority access if they are applying for a new flat to live near or with each other. This will replace the Married Child Priority Scheme and Senior Priority Scheme.

The FCS (Joint Balloting) will allow parents and their children to apply for two units in the same BTO project, replacing the Multi-Generation Priority Scheme. It will be introduced in end-2025.

Mr Lee added that more details will be shared in due course.