Works start on 34-home, Housing Investment Fund project

• Construction has begun on the first housing development funded under the Palaszczuk Government’s $2 billion Housing Investment Fund (HIF)
• The project in Chermside will deliver 34 new social and affordable housing units
• The HIF is part of a record $5 billion for social and affordable housing, the largest investment in Queensland’s history, to help deliver 13,500 homes by 2027

Queensland’s HIF will deliver 34 new one- and two-bedroom social and affordable housing units in Brisbane’s north.

It comes after the Palaszczuk Government earlier this week announce 71 projects, with the potential deliver over 3000 homes, would be shortlisted for HIF detailed proposal phase.

The Palaszczuk Government’s HIF was bolstered in 2022 to $2 billion, and provides subsidies, one-off capital grants and other support to encourage the development, finance and operation of social and affordable housing across Queensland.

A partnership between Brisbane Housing Company and the Queensland Investment Corporation, this project has been designed by award-winning Brisbane architectural group Ultralinea.

With a target of a 7+star NatHERS rating, this complex will offer rainwater collection and storage for landscaping irrigation, as well as solar power for communal spaces and lifts.

It has been designed with social inclusion in mind for residents, with communal spaces including an alfresco rooftop and ground floor common space.

Quotes attributable to Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon:

“To address the impact national housing pressures are having in Queensland, we need to work with industry to look at new solutions and ways of doing things – that’s where the HIF steps in.

“The Housing Investment Fund means we can work with industry to fund more projects, and that Queenslanders will be able to continue to access critical funding for housing projects not just now but into the future.

“Earthworks are now underway and the six-storey complex will soon begin to take shape, with completion anticipated next year.

“It’s disappointing to see similar proposals by the Federal Government being blocked by the LNP and Greens – a proposal that would provide funding certainty into the future.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Stafford Jimmy Sullivan:

“Once completed, these new homes in Chermside will be a welcome addition to our community.

“We know that there is demand for social and affordable housing in the northern suburbs, particularly in Brisbane’s north.

“These new homes are located close to shops and essential services, and I look forward to welcoming the new residents next year.”

Quotes attributable to Brisbane Housing Company CEO Rebecca Oelkers:

“BHC’s vision is to create vibrant developments that provide essential workers, and Queenslanders in housing need, with safe, quality homes close to transport and services.

“These homes will be within walking distance of the Prince Charles and St Vincent’s Hospitals and the retail hub of Chermside Shopping Centre and will provide much needed accommodation to low-income earners and essential workers in these precincts.

“Thoughtful architecture will bring this dynamic community housing project to life, providing a peace of mind for residents that comes with the stability of long-term rental tenure.”

Further information:

Anyone who needs housing assistance can contact their local Housing Service Centre during business hours or call the 24/7 Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753.

ENDS

Media contact: Francis DelaCruz - 0420 592 078