The Minister for Communities and Housing, Leeanne Enoch, has implemented a range of measures in response to the current housing challenges and homelessness following the recent rainfall and flooding crisis.
Ms Enoch said the efforts included a $600,000 Rapid Response Fund to deliver enhanced housing and homelessness services in impacted areas, including support with items such as food, toiletries, clothing, basic furnishings and health.
“There are currently 1,035 people from 461 households that have already received emergency housing as a result of the severe weather event,” Ms Enoch said.
“Every Queenslander deserves a roof over their head, and I have been looking at all available options to assist people who might require short-term accommodation and longer-term housing,” she said.
“This includes working with local hotel and motel partners to book appropriate hotel accommodation for short-term accommodation needs and exploring capacity of previous quarantine accommodation.
She said offers from the private sector were also being explored including commercial, holiday, mobile or other short-term rentals.
“These are options that could assist a number of individuals and families who might not be able to live in their own homes due to flood damage,” she said.
Ms Enoch said that in response to community need there was temporary expanded use of and eligibility for products such as Bond Loans, Bond Loan Plus and Rental Grants for Queensland residents within the activated disaster areas, who were displaced from their property due to the weather events.
“A range of rent relief measures are also available for social housing tenants who are unable to remain in their homes due to flood related damage and the property requiring repair,” the Minister said.
She said anyone in need of emergency accommodation can access assistance at their local Housing Service Centre, either in person or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
