NEW HOUSING UNITS FOR LOW INCOME EARNERS COMPLETED IN GLADSTONE

Acting Minister for Public Works, Housing and Information and Communication Technology, Judy Spence, today announced the completion of a new $5.65 million housing complex of 23 studio units in Gladstone.

Ms Spence said the William Street complex was constructed as part of the Department of Housing’s Community-Managed Housing Program.

“These units were built to address the shortage of private and public sector accommodation in the Gladstone region,” she said.

“The property consists of four buildings on three levels providing 23 studio units plus a communal recreation area and communal laundry, and disability access throughout the site.

“One unit is adaptable, which means it can be easily modified in the future to suit the widest possible range of occupants’ physical needs as a result of ageing or disabilities.

“Tenants will be able to enjoy the benefits of living in a central location close to conveniences such as public transport and local shopping and medical centres.”

Ms Spence said the Department of Housing’s Community-Managed Housing Program provided capital funds for the purchase or construction and furnishing of accommodation for low income earners who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

“It focuses on involving community organisations and local government in the management of community-managed housing,” Ms Spence said.

“Housing delivered by community organisations is plays a vital role in providing for the accommodation needs of some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

The construction of William Street studio units was funded by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government through the Commonwealth State Housing Agreement.

Ms Spence said the management rights for the studio units in William Street had been allocated to Roseberry Community Services Incorporated, a well respected housing provider in the Gladstone region.

Roseberry Community Services Incorporated has been operating in Gladstone for 20 years, and manages five properties as crisis and transitional housing and
six properties as community-managed housing.

The units were designed by the Department of Public Works and constructed by Sommer and Staff Constructions Pty Ltd.

“This housing development demonstrates the State Government’s strong commitment to social housing in the Gladstone electorate. More than $55.59 million has been spent on housing and housing-related services in the area since 1998,” Ms Spence said.

MEDIA CONTACT: DAVID SHANKEY 07 3237 1832