Roma House opens its doors to Brisbane’s homeless

Brisbane’s homeless population will benefit from accommodation and support services offered through Roma House, the first stage in a five-year project to refurbish the heritage-listed Lady Bowen complex at Spring Hill.

Queensland Premier Peter Beattie attended the opening of Roma House and launch of the Lady Bowen Trust, accompanied by the Minister for Housing Robert Schwarten and the Minister for Communities Warren Pitt.

Roma House will provide short-term accommodation and support services for up to 39 of Brisbane’s most disadvantaged people, with the new facility expected to welcome its first clients on Monday 27 November.

Mr Pitt said Roma House formed part of the Queensland Government’s $235 million four-year Responding to Homelessness strategy, with substantial funding allocations to the project from the Department of Housing and Department of Communities.

“Today’s official opening of Roma House illustrates the Queensland Government’s commitment to help homeless people rebuild their lives and their futures,” he said.

“This accommodation facility and the provision of associated services aim to re-establish connections with family and community and help homeless people achieve sustainable, long-term change in their lives.

“Earlier this year I was pleased to announce more than $6 million in funding over three years to assist Mission Australia to deliver and manage a range of services for Roma House clients. These services will incorporate health, housing, family support, and employment.

“The funding will also provide for a manager, support workers, administrative support staff, as well as cooking and cleaning staff. Nursing and mental health workers will be on duty 24 hours a day to provide medical assistance and counselling.”

Further stages of the redevelopment of the Lady Bowen site will include office space for community housing organisations to support homeless people, and additional accommodation options including long-term.

Media Contact: Joe Begley 3235 4280