$1.5 million to support Central West Queensland’s homeless

Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr has today announced $1.5 million to provide safe and secure accommodation for Central West Queenslanders experiencing homelessness, from Winton to Blackwater.

Ms Nelson-Carr said Anglicare Central Queensland’s Rural and Isolated Accommodation Service would receive $515,016 per annum over three years to support communities stretching 650 kilometres along the Capricorn Highway.

“This funding is a part of a $4.1 million package for Central Queenslanders, supporting some of our most vulnerable people,” she said.

“Individuals and families in Winton, Longreach, Barcaldine, Emerald and Blackwater who are homeless or victims of domestic violence will be able to access crisis and medium-term accommodation.”

State Parliament Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan welcomed the funding.

“This is about investing in front line services and organisations who are making a real difference,” Ms Kiernan said.

“It’s important Queenslanders know they can rely on a local organisation which will support and protect them and put a roof over their head when they need it.”

Ms Kiernan said the funding would go towards accommodation and outreach support, as well as telephone information and referral services.

The funding is part of a three-year Supported Accommodation Assistance Program (SAAP) package, providing short and medium-term accommodation and support services.

“This funding will enable a number of vital community services to keep doing what they do best – helping people in their greatest time of need,” Ms Kiernan said.

The SAAP program is funded jointly by the Commonwealth and Queensland governments to provide transitional supported accommodation and related services to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Media Contact:
Minister Nelson-Carr’s Office 3235 4280
Ms Betty Kiernan’s Office – 4742 2530