Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has slammed the State Labor Government for failing to take the housing crisis seriously.
Mr Bennett said Labor and local representatives continue to present spin and empty announcements, delivering false hope for residents who are struggling to put a roof over their heads.
“I stood on this very spot years ago to plead with the State Government to start listening to local families who can’t find a home to live in,” said Mr Bennett.
“Labor promised to deliver 750 Build to Rent units in 2021, where are they?
“Unfortunately, when a government runs out of ways to fix the problems they’ve created, they turn to announcements.
“But when you start to unpack some of these announcements, it’s soon clear they don’t stack up.
“Two and a half years after announcing the Housing Investment Fund, it still hasn’t built a single new home.
“Meanwhile lot and building approvals have decreased by 30 per cent.
“The number of stamp duty concessions in Queensland have also collapsed with residents priced out and taxed through the roof.
“The LNP has put solutions on the table including prioritising infrastructure partnerships with local government to unlock more land for housing, unleashing the community housing sector and setting real performance indicators.
“It’s about providing tangible solutions and hope for the future.”
Principal of First National Real Estate Bundaberg Justin Mayberry said the Queensland government’s handling of the housing rental crisis has been a disheartening display of neglect for its citizens.
“Despite being well aware of the pressing need for affordable housing, they have failed to implement effective policies, instead, relying heavily on the private sector to address the issue,” said Mr Mayberry.
“This approach has left countless Queenslanders struggling to find suitable, affordable homes, leading to a growing homelessness problem.
“Simultaneously, the government has imposed punitive measures on homeowners who invest in property, discouraging them from participating in the housing market.
“This contradictory stance not only exacerbates the housing crisis but also fails to provide the necessary support to those in need.
“It’s high time for Queensland’s leadership to take decisive action, prioritise affordable housing, and develop comprehensive policies that genuinely serve the interests of its people.”
ENDS.
07/02/2024