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The Housing Support Program forms part of the government’s plan to construct 1.2 million new homes over the next five years.
The Labor government has announced $50 million to boost housing and deliver community infrastructure projects in Cairns and Far North Queensland.
Almost half of that $50 million has been allocated through the Housing Support Program package to boost social housing supply across the region.
This funding will bankroll the delivery of increased social housing supply by constructing infrastructure and community amenities such as roads, stormwater drainage, earthworks and connection to utilities.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the funding and support to boost housing in this area.
“These projects mean more houses for more Cairns locals and better community facilities to bring them together,” he said.
“We want to see more social housing and more quality community-led infrastructure where people need it most.”
Funding has been allocated for five housing projects across the Far North Queensland region. This includes $6.5 million to develop two new residential expansion areas in both the north and south of Pormpuraaw. Additionally, $1.6 million has been designated to transform 14 lots into 34 lots in Napranum.
About $9.9 million will also be used to deliver 32 fully serviced lots in the remote Indigenous community of Seisia. Furthermore, $5.1 million will be allocated to support a 20-lot social housing development in Bamaga, while $1.8 million will improve access and provide essential trunk infrastructure for the social housing development in New Mapoon.
Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting regional communities.
“Whether cultural or community centres, sports facilities or town centres, we want to make our regions even better places to live, work and play – and that’s what we’re investing in here in Far North Queensland,” she stated.
In addition to the housing projects, seven community infrastructure projects, which were reviewed through a competitive, merit-based assessment process, will share nearly $25 million from the Growing Regions Program. This program provides funding ranging from $500,000 to $15 million for local government entities and incorporated not-for-profit organisations, and delivers investment in infrastructure across Australia’s regional, rural and remote areas.
The successful projects include $4 million for the Cairns Community and Multicultural Centre, $2 million to upgrade the PCYC Cairns facilities, and $5 million for enhancements to the Redlynch Community Sporting Precinct. Moreover, $2.65 million will be allocated for Stage 2 of the Cultural Knowledge Centre in Dixie, benefiting the Olkola people.
The projects also include $1.96 million for enhancing the streetscape visual appeal and the development of shared cycle and pedestrian paths in Mapoon, $7.49 million for a new council administration and community hub in Wujal Wujal, and $1.84 million for a Digital Services Centre in Hope Vale.
Nita Green, Senator for Queensland, expressed her pride in the government’s investment in the region.
“I am so proud to be part of a government that cares about and invests in the communities of Far North Queensland,” she said.
“The investment announced today shows that our government is listening to the needs of our region and is delivering them.”
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