Hon. MAJ SCANLON (Gaven—ALP) (Minister for Housing, Local Government and Planning and Minister for Public Works) (9.51 am): From the biggest energy rebate in the country to our hugely successful 50-cent fares, we are doing what matters for Queensland—supporting renters, helping first home buyers, boosting social housing and working towards ending homelessness. We have cut red tape and we are funding infrastructure to help build more homes faster. We are doing that through programs like our Incentivising Infill Development Fund. The name is not catchy—it is not a slick slogan or a catchy punchline—but it is $350 million that is clearing the way and getting projects off the ground.
Industry told us that they had projects ready to go—all they needed was a little bit of extra support. We are picking up the bill for infrastructure charges to pay for critical things like roads, parks and sewerage, and we are taking care of the application fees to make it cheaper to build and cheaper to buy. That means more money in the pockets of homebuyers. We have started off with 60 projects in the first round of applications. When they are finished, that will be another 1,872 new homes. Today I can announce that another 20 projects will receive funding, bringing forward another 1,870 homes in places like Brisbane, Logan, Moreton Bay, Ipswich and the Sunshine Coast.
We have been inundated with new applications. I reckon that is a pretty good sign that we have got this one right. The Planning Institute of Australia thinks so, too. Queensland state manager Nicole Bennetts said that the rapid uptake shows strong private sector appetite. They want to build the right homes in the right locations—close to hospitals, close to train stations and bus stops and close to where people want to live and work. We will make sure we use every square inch of land and get value for money for Queenslanders. The Incentivising Infill Development Fund is not a catchy slogan or a small target.
While I am on my feet, I want to address reports in the media today. Our team have been out at McCormick Place offering people accommodation since last week. While one person has accepted, I am advised that the other people have chosen not to take up that offer. The Premier’s commitment has been made clear, that anyone experiencing homelessness be offered accommodation. Our teams are ready to help. The sector asked for a 20 per cent increase in funding—we have delivered that. We have also created a dedicated fund to ensure we can pay for accommodation for anyone experiencing homelessness. We will continue to do outreach and offer support to people right across Queensland.
