Transitional housing project to fill vacant lot in Kingaroy

Building has started on a duplex for at-risk South Burnett youth to escape homelessness and step into transitional accommodation in Kingaroy.

Haven House Kingaroy

Vulnerable young people in the South Burnett will soon have a safe haven in the form of a duplex aiming to address youth homelessness in the region.

The Property Industry Foundation and South Burnett CTC have joined forces to launch Haven House Kingaroy, a four-bedroom duplex offering safe and supportive housing for vulnerable young individuals at risk of homelessness in the South Burnett region.

The project aims to provide transitional housing for at-risk young people, offering them a path towards stability and a brighter future.

On Thursday, May 9, South Burnett CTC chief executive Jason Erbacher, Property Industry Foundation QLD events and engagement manager Rebecca Field, along with other guests including South Burnett Mayor Kathy Duff, gathered for a sod-turning ceremony to mark the start of construction on the four-bedroom duplex at 84 Haly Street, Kingaroy.

Property Industry Foundation chief executive Kate Mills emphasised the significance of the initiative in meeting the pressing demand for safe and supportive housing options in the region.

“Haven House Kingaroy represents a critical step forward in our ongoing efforts to reduce youth homelessness in the South Burnett,” Ms Mills said.

Construction will begin this month on the vacant lot at 84 Haly Street, Kingaroy.

She reaffirmed the Property Industry Foundation’s commitment to leveraging their network within the property industry to create opportunities for vulnerable youth.

The inception of Haven House Kingaroy was announced last October at the foundation’s inaugural Backseat Sleepout by a young man benefiting from transitional housing provided by South Burnett CTC.

The need for such initiatives is underscored by the latest census data, which revealed that more than 120,000 Australians experienced homelessness, with a significant portion comprising 12- to 24-year-olds.

Mr Erbacher expressed his pride in the partnership between the two organisations, emphasising their shared commitment to empowering young people.

“At the heart of Haven House Kingaroy is the unwavering belief in the potential of every young person,” Mr Erbacher said.

He highlighted the importance of transitional housing and holistic support services in helping young individuals overcome challenges and build resilience.

Jackson Hills, Rebecca Field, Shaun Bliesner and Jason Erbacher turning the first sod on the Haven House project.

In 2023, CTC supported 29 young people through their hostel for homeless youth in Kingaroy, with 70 per cent successfully transitioning to secure and sustainable housing.

Local builder Peter Hay of Homezone Projects was acknowledged for his instrumental role in bringing Haven House Kingaroy to fruition. “His commitment to the project has been instrumental in turning this dream into a reality,” Mr Erbacher said.

Construction on Haven House Kingaroy is expected to begin this month.

Originally published as Transitional housing project to fill vacant lot in Kingaroy