Qld govt sticks to 'ambitious' target to build 1 million homes in 20 years
The Queensland government is pushing ahead with its target to build one million homes in 20 years, despite concerns from residents and industry leaders. The plan has sparked debate about the suitability of development in certain areas and the need for more skilled workers in the construction sector.
Residents in Brisbane's Banyo suburb are bracing for a massive 450-home development on a long-vacant site, part of the Queensland government's ambitious target to build one million homes in 20 years.
Kim Weston, a Banyo resident who has moved three times within her suburb over 10 years, is leaving for good before the development is built on her street. She said she did not oppose development but took issue with the suitability of the plans for the area.
"I know that people need housing, but build according to the site," she said.
The 6.4-hectare former Energex site will be home to 207 townhouses, 64 affordable housing units, and an 180-bed residential aged care facility, with construction expected to start next year.
An Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) spokesperson said it had undertaken a "robust community engagement process" to ensure residents and the community could have their say.
Housing Minister Sam O'Connor said while the government would consider community feedback, the land had been earmarked for housing for a long time.
"It is something we will not apologise for because there should be housing in locations like that," he said. "It is very close to public transport, it's very close to services, it is very close to everything that people need for a great life."
Premier David Crisafulli said the government was committed to its target of building one million homes, despite challenges posed by Canberra's tax changes.
"It's an ambitious target, but we are sticking by it, and it is what Queenslanders expect," he said.
The Queensland government has touted a 35 per cent rise in the rate of homes under construction in Queensland, but the completion of 34,627 homes in the last financial year falls short of the 50,000 needed each year until 2044 to meet its promise.
Master Builders Queensland deputy chief executive Michael Hopkins said the state needs 20,000 more tradies to meet the target.
"Finding all the skilled tradies we need to build the 50,000 homes has got to be at the top of the list at the moment," he said.
Queensland Council of Social Service chief executive Aimee McVeigh said a "broader vision" is needed to address the housing crisis.
"Across the board, we need to make sure we have housing that meets the needs of all Queenslanders," she said.