• Construction of seven one-bedroom apartments gets underway in North Mackay
• Miles Government also supporting renters in the region through a new $160 million Renters Relief Package to help people find, get, and keep a rental
• The Renters Relief Package forms part of the new Homes for Queenslanders strategy released by the government in February.

The Miles Labor Government is boosting social and affordable housing in Mackay with construction of seven one-bedroom units, as part of its record Homes for Queenslanders plan.

The seven one-bedroom units add to the 74 homes already delivered in the Mackay Whitsunday region.

Homes for Queenslanders aims to deliver 53,500 social homes across the state as part of a record public and community housing investment.

The Miles Government is also backing regional renters through the Renters Relief Package to help people to find, get and keep a rental home.

The Rental Relief Package is funded by $160 million over the next five as a key pillar of Homes for Queenslanders.

Quotes attributable to Premier Steven Miles:

“We know that to relieve pressure in the housing market we must boost supply.

“That’s why my government is getting on with the job of building thousands of new homes right around the state, including here in Mackay.

“What is just a block of land now will soon be home to seven one-bedroom apartments.

“We know it’s this kind of housing that we need to build to home single people and older people who are looking to downsize.

“This frees up larger social homes for families and ensures accommodation is fit for purpose.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Planning and Minister for Public Works Meaghan Scanlon:

“We’re working hard to build more homes in North Mackay Homes for Queenslanders plan.

“Our record social and affordable housing Big Build will provide thousands and thousands of homes for families, singles and couples while also creating thousands of jobs.

“We’re also delivering upfront support for people right now, including funding for emergency accommodation and more relief packages for renters.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert:

“I’ve lived in Mackay all my life and I welcome anything that benefits the Mackay region and my fellow Mackayites,” she said.

“Like all of Queensland, in recent years Mackay has been dealing with increasing pressure on households.

“The development of housing programs aimed at increasing the housing supply in Mackay and surrounding regions is very welcome. This latest announcement to fast-track construction of seven apartments in North Mackay is positive news for our community,” she said. 

Quotes attributable to Fergus Builders Director Adam Wright:

“This project is a great opportunity for Fergus Builders to again work with the Queensland Government and to bring more housing online for Queensland,” he said.

“We’re happy to contribute to a housing supply to help meet the ever-increasing demand for homes, rental properties and social housing in Mackay and surrounding regions.”

Further information:

Anyone who needs housing assistance can contact the Mackay Housing Service Centre on (07) 4862 9500 during business hours or call the 24/7 Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753.

ENDS