“The Palaszczuk Labor Government’s housing fund headline is grossly misleading.
It’s pedalling false hope for people sleeping in cars and tents around the region.
Unfortunately, this is a reannouncement as this fund was established nearly two years ago.
In that time, the government hasn’t unveiled a single home it has built.
While I welcome the Government’s willingness to work with the private sector, the announcement leaves me with more questions.
After nearly two years, how many homes have been built by the fund?
Why are they only asking for more ideas now?
For years I have been calling on the government to open doors for developers and builders who have projects ready to go.
While I’m pleased to see them finally listen to the community, I must ask what has been the hold up?
This delay has cost us dearly.
We have seen the Social Housing Register for the Bundaberg and Burnett electorates blow out.
In just the last 12 months, it’s grown by more than 200, with 810 applications made.
What is extremely concerning is the fact that 93% of these applications are considered ‘Very High Need’.
While I welcome the State Government working with the private sector and encourage developers to put forward proposals, I can’t help but be disappointed with this re-announcement.
After nearly two years, the public has no idea how much money from this fund has been used to build a single home because the Palaszczuk Labor Government hasn’t released that information.”
10/02/2023