INFORMATION MANUALS WILL HELP INDIGENOUS PEOPLE OWN THEIR OWN HOMES

The first in a series of information manuals designed to help indigenous people in Queensland own their own homes on community land will be released next month (July), Natural Resources Minister Craig Wallace said today.

New laws passed last month by the Queensland Parliament created historic new 99-year residential and commercial leases on indigenous land.

Mr Wallace said the Bligh Government was producing the manuals and procedures to help communities take advantage of the new leases.

“We are planning for the future for indigenous communities by helping people own their own homes,” he said.

The first of these will cover residential leases on indigenous Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT) land.

Manuals for other tenures and providing information on other types of leases will follow.

“Leases can be for residential, infrastructure or commercial purposes, so information will be prepared about each of these purposes and for potential lessees,” Mr Wallace said.

“The manuals will continue to be improved over time as experience with administering the new Act improves understanding of the processes involved.”

Mr Wallace said training workshops for trustees would also be offered across the State from late July or early August to help ensure the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Amendment Act 2008 realises its full home ownership potential.

“Reform of land tenure is a vital first step to improve housing and other community infrastructure in indigenous communities,” he said.

“Leases of up to 99 years for home ownership, public infrastructure, public housing and commercial purposes will provide stability for individuals, families, communities and businesses.

“The Queensland Government is also implementing projects to improve the survey network in indigenous communities and developing methods to determine a value for indigenous land and houses. All of this work will help people get the new leases.

Other assistance is also available to indigenous people looking to take advantage of the extended lease arrangements now on offer, Mr Wallace said.

Indigenous Business Australia provides affordable loans to indigenous people for housing and commercial purposes.

A special loan package is available for indigenous community residents which can help reduce costs. This includes a grant of up to $13,000 towards establishment costs such as surveys, legal fees and insurance.

According to IBA, people with a good rental history may also be eligible for up to $50,000 Good Renter’s Discount off the sale price.

Indigenous Business Australia general manager Ron Morony said: “IBA is committed to working with the Queensland Government on this exciting opportunity to enable home ownership and economic development in indigenous communities.”

For further information contact Paul Childs, Craig Wallace’s office, on 0407 131 654.