Community & Business
31 August, 2024
Social housing boost for Mareeba
CONSTRUCTION has started on a duplex in Mareeba that will boost social housing in the town.
The two, two-bedroom social home development is being delivered with $935,000 funding from the State Government.
The homes are being built by Brendan Grant Homes and will support around three full-time equivalent construction jobs – providing a boost for the local economy.
Future residents will have easy access to public transport, the town centre and shopping precincts, schools and health services.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui, Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin and Mareeba Community Housing’s Patricia Goldfinch gathered to turn the first sod at the site recently.
“It’s great to see more social homes in the Far North being delivered in partnership with community housing providers through the Homes for Queenslanders plan,” Ms Lui said.
“This project will make a difference to our community and at the same time provide a vital boost for the construction industry in our region.”
Mayor Toppin said the council was committed to help reduce the impact of the current housing shortage.
“As Mayor of Mareeba Shire Council, I’m happy to be in a position to enable opportunities for the community. Mareeba Shire Council is committed to helping to tackle the housing crisis that is playing out across Australia,” she said.
“This project will provide a safe and secure place for vulnerable seniors to call home, and both units will be modified to help seniors with mobility issues.
“Council is proud to have been involved in this joint project with the State Government and Mareeba Community Housing to provide housing for vulnerable seniors as well as opportunities for our local economy.”
Ms Goldfinch agreed, saying” “These new social and affordable homes, though small in number, will bring life-changing opportunities for some Mareeba residents.
“These architecturally designed homes are designed to complement the neighbourhood as well as offering convenient access to the Mareeba town-heart and facilities.
“We remain committed to expanding the supply of safe, affordable homes in the community and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Queensland Government to deliver more projects like these.”
