- The Crisafulli Government is working with Queensland Rail to support vulnerable women needing housing assistance.
- Two former crew-quarters at Acacia Ridge will be transformed into affordable housing.
- Additional sites for repurposing are being explored across Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government is working to support people in need of safe, secure housing by transforming unused Queensland Rail properties into affordable homes.
Two former crew-quarters in Acacia Ridge will be converted into housing for up to 14 older women.
The refurbishment led by Housing All Australians (HAA), will ensure the properties are fit for purpose, while Churches of Christ Housing Services Limited (CCHSL) will manage the properties and allocate tenants once the works are completed.
The project is already in motion, with plans to start renovations later this year.
Ten additional sites throughout the state are also being explored, including a property at Lota, that could be used for affordable housing.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg is pleased to support the initiative to repurpose Queensland Rail quarters to help our most vulnerable.
“It has never been more difficult to find or keep a roof over your head as it is right now in Queensland, following a decade of Labor failures in the space," Minister Mickelberg said.
“This project is more than just accommodation - a safe place to call home can change lives, particularly for vulnerable women who may be escaping domestic violence.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to finding new housing solutions, and I am pleased that Queensland Rail had some options to help."
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said everyone deserved a safe place to live but sadly a lack of affordable housing and homelessness was a real issue affecting many Queenslanders.
“We're proud to work with Housing All Australians and Churches of Christ Housing Services to give unused buildings a new purpose that will provide relief to people struggling to find a safe place to live," she said.
Housing All Australians Queensland State Management Chair Mike Myers said he was proud to work with their first Government partner.
“After undertaking similar projects in Melbourne, Perth and Hobart, this is our first project in Queensland, and we are proud to work with our first government partner, Queensland Rail and Churches of Christ to show what is possible through true collaboration," he said.
“HAA calls on other businesses that have a skill, product or service that they are willing to offer pro bono to help refurbish these empty buildings and join the growing group of 'compassionate capitalists' that care about those more vulnerable in our community."
Churches of Christ Housing Services General Manager Gus Taddeo said he hoped the partnership inspired others to consider how they could alleviate the pressures of Queensland's growing housing and cost-of-living crisis on vulnerable people.
“Homelessness is a complex issue that requires multifaceted solutions, but with a shared commitment across sectors, we can make a meaningful difference," he said.
ENDS