Budget 2021: Opposition demands Darling Downs social housing action

While $32 million has been committed in this year’s budget to address housing over the next four years in the Darling Downs, the LNP is calling for the Queensland Government to take action now.

While social housing in the Darling Downs has been given a funding boost in this year’s Queensland Government budget, opposition MPs remain unconvinced the investment will be enough to address the burgeoning problem.

The state government launched its Queensland Housing Strategy Action Plan 2021-2025 in conjunction with Tuesday’s state budget, with a $32 million investment in the Darling Downs which would see more than 100 new homes built, supporting more than 100 full-time jobs over four years.

However South Toowoomba MP and Opposition spokesman for treasury David Janetzki said the Darling Downs couldn’t afford to wait four years.

“There is a crisis in local housing availability and affordability that demands an immediate governmental response,” he said.

“That’s why it’s concerning how little the state government is putting towards constructing and upgrading social housing in the year ahead.

“Now is not the time for unfunded promises in the Never Never.”

Queensland Deputy Leader of the Opposition David Janetzki speaks during Question Time at Parliament House in Brisbane. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Dan Peled

Toowoomba North MP Trevor Watts said social housing was an issue that needed immediate attention.

“We know we have a massive crisis looming because we just don’t have private rentals available and we have a lot of people young and old sleeping on the streets,” he said.

Housing Minister Leeanne Enoch said the action plan would support those hit by the housing crisis while providing job opportunities.

“We want to support more local families and community members to have a safe and secure place to call home,” Ms Enoch said.

“Our investment in social housing will support jobs for local tradies, as well as small businesses throughout the supply chain.”