Livingstone Shire Council and AnglicareCQ Partner to Provide Community Housing

Livingstone Shire Council has committed to supporting Anglicare Central Queensland in their efforts to help address the severe shortage in community housing in the region.

Subject to the provision of funding through the State, and development approval being sought, Council has agreed to contribute two parcels of Council-owned land in Yeppoon and Emu Park to underpin the project’s feasibility.

The move follows a presentation by AnglicareCQ earlier this year, which highlighted that over 1000 people are currently waiting for affordable accommodation in Yeppoon and Rockhampton.

To help address this issue, Council has committed to providing AnglicareCQ with two vacant lots at 16-18 Cordingley Street, Yeppoon and 99-115 Fountain Street, Emu Park for affordable family accommodation, including units for people with disabilities.

Mayor Andy Ireland said the current housing crisis is one of the biggest challenges facing Australia and the region, and partnering with community housing providers like AnglicareCQ is an essential step in addressing this situation. 

“While the housing shortage cuts across most of the market, it is the sharp decline in the availability of units to accommodate low income, single parents, people with a disability and other vulnerable sectors, that is the most pronounced and the most impactful,” Mayor Ireland said.

"Having a roof over your head is one of the most essential basic human needs, and Council is committed to addressing the housing shortage in our region,” Mayor Ireland said.

“Council supports this initiative and looks forward to working with AnglicareCQ to deliver this much-needed housing to the Shire.

“Whilst this is an important step, much more will be needed to fully address the problem.  This is where the assistance of relevant State and Federal agencies becomes pivotal, so I welcome their growing attention to this crisis.”

AnglicareCQ Chief Executive Officer, Carol Godwin said AnglicareCQ welcomes Council’s decision to partner with us to progress community and affordable housing solutions on the Capricorn Coast. 

“The gifting of two parcels of council land on the condition that AnglicareCQ secures funds to develop these blocks, is a move in the right direction when it comes to relieving housing pressure in our community,” Ms Godwin said.

“Livingstone Shire Council is to be commended for being progressive in their thinking and getting behind us to tackle the housing crisis. 

“From here, AnglicareCQ hopes our State and Federal government partners also support these critical projects and we can get builds happening promptly.”