Queensland delivers for remote communities in the face of Federal neglect

The Palaszczuk Government is continuing work to Close the Gap in Queensland’s remote communities, despite the recent withdrawal of dedicated funding from the Federal Government.

Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui said the provision of housing in remote communities through the National Partnership on Remote Housing is a critical measure to addressing the disparity in health, education, and employment incomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote communities and the rest of the state.

“Queensland’s delivery of remote indigenous housing leads the nation, and we have not just met but exceeded delivery targets set by the Federal Government,” Ms Lui said.

“Just this month, we’ve seen five new homes delivered in Kowanyama and each of these homes will relieve the pressure of overcrowding for families in this community.

“These homes have been delivered by the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council and their construction has provided ongoing employment and training for nine workers and apprentices.

“In Queensland, we consistently deliver far higher rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment through housing construction delivered under this program – more than 80 percent is delivered by indigenous workers, up from an initial rate of just 10 percent.

“It’s those employment outcomes that we’re working toward with this housing, as well as reducing overcrowding, and improving health, education and social outcomes.”

Ms Lui said further contracts had recently been awarded to the Lockhart River and Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Councils to upgrade social housing in their communities.

“We’re not just building new housing, though that’s a key component of reducing overcrowding,” Ms Lui said.

“Through this funding, we’re upgrading and repairing housing to ensure it’s safe, secure and appropriate to live in, and that it remains in good condition so it will last.

“By upgrading and maintaining homes along with building new properties, we are maximising the positive outcomes for these communities.

“The fact that most of this work is undertaken by local councils ensures these jobs go to local workers wherever possible, providing training opportunities and steady employment across a range of trades.

“For example, these works will involve painting, roof repair, plumbing and electrical work.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said the Federal Government’s refusal to commit to further funding flew in the face of its responsibilities towards Closing the Gap.

“Malcolm Turnbull has previously acknowledged that Closing the Gap is a responsibility of all levels of government, including the Federal Government,” Mr de Brenni.

“It’s a responsibility we take seriously - we are consistently delivering above agreed upon benchmarks, in a way that maximises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in the process.

“So why is Malcolm Turnbull walking away now? There is so much more yet to be done, and the Commonwealth needs to pick up tools and get back to work.”

ENDS

Media contact: Cat Milton 0410 644 113