Queensland welcomes federal homelessness funding

Queensland service providers received a massive boost with the Abbott Government announcing its ongoing commitment to the National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Tim Mander welcomed the roughly $30 million contribution and said it would make a big difference to Queensland's most vulnerable.

"This money will help fund the work of 26 non-government organisations delivering frontline services to vulnerable people in 40 locations throughout the state," Mr Mander said.

"Unfortunately the Rudd/Gillard Government had refused to commit to funding beyond the end of June.

“Today's announcement will come as welcome news to service providers, giving them the certainty they need to keep their doors open.

“It follows the recent launch of the Queensland’s Government’s Home for Good initiative, designed to identify the underlying factors that lead to someone becoming homeless.”

Mr Mander said the contribution was particularly welcome given the state of the Federal budget.  

"We shouldn't overlook that this is money has been provided at a time when the Commonwealth is having to tighten its belt in a whole range of areas due to the wasteful spending of the previous Labor Government,” he said.

"It's good to know we now have a federal government that is just as serious about ending homelessness as we are."

[ENDS] 30 March 2014

Media contact: Martin Kennedy 0418 891 943