Bligh Government steps in to help householders in need

The Bligh Government has again stepped in to help residents of Collingwood Park, west of Brisbane, whose properties were damaged by mine subsidence last year.

Minister Wilson said funds out of the State Government’s $10 million rescue package would be used to buy four more properties in the area.

“While the properties haven’t suffered any structural damage, which is the main criteria for the government to buy or repair the properties, we’ve determined that these four properties are special cases,” Mr Wilson said.

“There’s more to our rescue package than bricks and mortar. People’s lives have been disrupted and they need our help to get back on track,” he said.

Mr Wilson said the State Government had committed to buy nine properties damaged by mine subsidence in Collingwood Park.

“Officers from my Department of Mines and Energy have been examining other properties on a case by case basis, taking into account exceptional circumstances,” he said.

“Ten properties are now in that category and we have given a commitment to buy each and every one of them,” he said.

“We’ve also given residents of Collingwood Park a guarantee that we will repair or buy any properties damaged by the subsidence now or in the future. It’s an iron-clad guarantee for the life of the property,” he said.

The Minister said the Bligh Government acted swiftly and decisively to make sure residents were safe and sound when the mine subsidence occurred in April last year.

“We got them out of there, helped them move and found new homes for them,” he said.

“And we will continue to provide support for people whose homes have been damaged by the mine subsidence.

“It’s been a tough time and we want them to feel secure in the knowledge that we’re there for them,” he said.

Member for Bundamba, Jo-Ann Miller welcomed the decision.

“I hope today’s announcement reassures residents that we have not forgotten them. We will continue to help where we can,” Ms Miller said.

“Good governments, compassionate governments, look after the battlers. That’s what this is all about,” she said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819