State owned houses are sitting vacant in the middle of a housing crisis and Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has raised the alarm.
Mr Bennett has called on government departments to work together to identify vacant homes, such as schoolhouses and police accommodation, that could provide emergency accommodation.
“Tents and makeshift caravans on roadsides have become a common sight in and around Bundaberg,” he said.
“Couples, families, grandparents; they’re vulnerable and desperate for a roof over their heads.
“Homelessness does not discriminate, and the housing crisis is only getting worse.”
Mr Bennett tabled a Question on Notice to the Minister for Housing this morning.
Can the Minister advise how many state-owned houses associated with regional schools, e.g., Givelda State School, and other Government Departments, exist and where they are located in Queensland? Can the Minister advise a) which of these houses have been untenanted in the past five years; b) for what period were these houses untenanted; and c) which houses are currently untenanted?
Mr Bennett said it’s about identifying vacancies and putting underutilised assets back into the system.
“Right now, there are state owned homes dotted around the Wide Bay that are sitting there empty,” he said.
“I visited one only last week, the Givelda School House.
“It needs its lawn mown and gutters cleaned, but is otherwise in good condition.
“It could be a family’s home, it could be crisis accommodation, a solution while someone transitions to something more permanent.
“It could be a locked door that provides a child with the safety and security they need to have one good night’s sleep.
“We don’t know how many of these houses exist, that’s why I’m asking the Minister to provide those details that could trigger interdepartmental discussions and result in a home for a family in need.”
ENDS.
15/03/2023