This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
QUEENSLAND’S Palaszczuk Government will allow community housing companies to borrow against their combined $2 billion share in social housing across the state, in a bid enable more affordable dwelling initiatives.
The first agreement under the “Partnering for Growth” scheme will see a $28 million put be towards the government’s community housing vehicle, the Brisbane Housing Company’s $222 million plan that will deliver 682 affordable homes.
These would include 172 affordable rental homes, 90 new affordable homes for purchase, 70 homes purchased via shared equity, 200 build to rent homes, 120 affordable retirement living unit, and 30 new specialist disability accommodation homes.
BHC chair, Eloise Atkinson said the company’s Affordable Housing Growth Strategy 2019-2023 was a response to the agenda outlined by the Queensland Housing Strategy 2017-2027.
Minister for Housing and Public Works, Mick de Brenni said the “Partnering for Growth” initiative would enable new collaborations to reduce homelessness and create pathways to housing independence.
He said community housing providers have an important role to play in delivering social and affordable homes at subsidised rates for low to moderate income earners.
“We want the sector to leverage some of the significant investment made by the government and community housing organisations over the past decade.
“Until now we’ve placed too much emphasis on reporting of program funds rather than exploring how these funds can be better used to provide more housing and assistance for people in need.
“If we do this, we will be able to meet future demand and provide a broad range of accommodation options.”
Australian Property Journal
