Government to dispose over 1 600 state owned properties: Macpherson

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has revealed that the government plans to dispose of more than 1 600 state owned properties.

He says the move is part of efforts to cut costs and improve how state assets are used.

The initiative also ties into government plans to revitalise inner cities, address hijacked or dilapidated buildings, and redirect funds towards infrastructure development and job creation. 

Macpherson says the state currently owns approximately 88,000 buildings.

“We spend R6 billion every year on leases. Even if we were able to cut that in half, that would be R3 billion we could invest in our own assets and save there. We’re also spending nearly R500 million every year on securing properties that remain vacant, idle, or not being used. So clearly, it’s actually an economic question that is before us about what is in the best interests of public money. How can we use that public money to generate growth and jobs?”

[STATEMENT] I have directed the Department of Public Works & Infrastructure to undertake a national audit of all state-owned residential properties following reports of irregular occupation.

Public assets exist to serve the people of South Africa – not as private benefits. Where… pic.twitter.com/sClZmvSTxh

— Dean Macpherson MP (@DeanMacpherson) March 12, 2026