Federal housing cuts will only increase homelessness

Any Commonwealth Government moves to cut the housing funding will be fought tooth and nail by the Queensland Government.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said reports suggesting the Commonwealth were looking to scrap the National Affordable Housing Agreement were deeply concerning.

“Queensland has a nation leading public housing system that is producing results for vulnerable Queenslanders,” Mr de Brenni said.

“If Scott Morrison thinks cutting housing for seniors and people with a disability is a good idea then he has well and truly lost touch.

“It’s time for the Commonwealth to genuinely engage with the states on a funding model that addresses housing stress for the long term.

“Last year this funding enabled us to place over 6,800 new families into public housing, including 390 households escaping domestic and family violence.

“Forcing vulnerable people into homelessness is cruel and it’s a recipe for social disaster.”

Mr de Brenni said that Queenslanders would be appalled to see such cruel measures from the Commonwealth.

“Our state is founded on fundamental principles of decency and fairness.

“I think people will be rightfully outraged if Commonwealth funding cuts put people onto the streets.”

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Media Contact: Tristan Douglas 0447 164 197