Strong Plan for housing vulnerable Queenslanders

The 2014-15 State Budget reaffirms the Government’s commitment to house the State’s most vulnerable residents and make it easier for the private sector to do business with government.

Treasurer Tim Nicholls said the State Budget included increases to community services spending, while not raising taxes or cutting services.

“It outlines our plan to secure the State’s finances by making the strongest and smartest choice to reduce debt so we can sustainably invest in the infrastructure this growing state needs, including for Queenslanders who need it most,” he said.

Housing and Public Works Minister Tim Mander said the 2014-15 State Budget allocated almost $250 million to provide better and more accessible public housing.

“It’s no secret the former Labor government neglected the public housing system, leaving more than 30,000 households languishing on the waiting list” Mr Mander said.

“While we’ve been able to reduce that figure by more than a third so far, there is still plenty to do and we’re tackling these challenges head on by partnering with the non-government sector to deliver an additional 1800 new dwellings.

“The Government has a strong plan for a brighter future which is why, as well as investing in bricks and mortar solutions, we expect to be able to help 38,000 low income households to either find or retain a place in the private rental market through housing products like RentConnect and Bond Loans. “

Mr Mander said the Government would also increase accommodation options for the homeless and those at risk of homelessness by expanding the Street to Home program and by establishing a Housing Assistance Triage System to rapidly provide people with support.

“Homelessness has no place in our society and these initiatives will play an important part in meeting our commitment to halve the current rate of homelessness by 2020,” he said.

“The budget also delivers 70 new homes for completion in remote indigenous communities. These homes will play a big role in addressing overcrowding and ensuring indigenous Queenslanders have a safe place to call home.”

Mr Mander said the Queensland Government would continue with the ongoing overhaul of the procurement system to make it easier for business to work with government.

“Wave 1 of our procurement transformation program has already enabled savings of up to $130 million. Waves 2 and 3 are likely to enable additional savings of up to $440 million,” he said.

[ENDS] 3 June 2014

Media Contact – Minister Mander’s Office 07 3719 7270