Courier Mail, February 1, 2017
Social service providers have welcomed a new public housing strategy but say support for education and training programs should also be bolstered.
The State Government’s Better Neighbourhood’s Logan initiative aims to build 3000 new public and affordable dwellings and create 2400 jobs over the next 20 years. Adventist Development Relief Agency Centre Manger Henk La Dru said the plan to improve the balance of public and mainstream housing could lead to better outcomes for those in the system.
He said he would like to see funding for support services increased to help meet demand.
YFS CEO Cath Bartolo also supported the strategy and encouraged a consolidated approach between private, community and government stakeholders.
“Our demand for services will always exceed capacity … we recognise there are limits to funding and it is not a bottomless pit,” she said.
“YFS is keen to work with funders to determine how we can provide integrated service provisions and have a long-term plan that works with people to be work ready and to build their independence and economic capacity.”
The Queensland Government manages 4667 homes in Logan and there are 1066 people on the register of need.
Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni did not say whether funding would be increased for support services but said he would work with community organisations throughout the market sounding phase.
“With this information, we’ll be able to better match community expectations and needs so that we can deliver appropriate services and housing,” he said.
“I will be focusing on creating opportunities for young people in public housing to earn and learn. Some of our existing policies can create disincentives for young people to work or study, especially where their wages impact rent calculations for their parents.”
Courier Mail- Housing strategy gets thumbs up but calls for more jobs training