A Queensland advisory body bringing together a range of stakeholders from across the state has met for the first time to deliver practical solutions to government to reduce homelessness.
The Homelessness Ministerial Advisory Council provides an opportunity for frontline service providers, community housing leaders, councils and specialised experts to offer evidence-based advice to senior government leaders including in health and housing.
Council members are able to give a real-time picture of homelessness challenges and responses and provide a regular direct line of communication, said Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor.
“We know homelessness is a far more complex issue than just providing a safe place to stay. That’s why we’ve created the Homelessness Ministerial Advisory Council – to look at short, medium, and long-term solutions right across Queensland.”
“Every Queenslander deserves a safe, secure place to call home,” he added, “and that’s what we are determined to deliver.”
Logan-based YFS is one of the service providers to have been invited to sit on the advisory council. Its CEO Christopher John said its establishment marks a shift in the state’s homelessness response.
“HMAC gives YFS and others a seat at the table to shape solutions that understand the lived experience of those facing housing insecurity and homelessness. This ministerial council ensures that on-the-ground service providers, who work every day with people experiencing homelessness, can provide valuable perspectives – and if we’re serious about change these views are exactly what needs to be heard.”
Fiona Caniglia – CEO at peak body QShelter – said the new advisory body has the potential to drive collaboration across sectors and strengthen statewide responses.
“We welcome this strategic forum for collaboration that brings all of the necessary parts of the system together. The housing crisis requires all parts of the system working together. HMAC is a critical opportunity to ensure that the policies developed translate into effective and sustainable solutions, now and in the future.”
According to the Salvation Army, the best estimates available suggest there are around 22,395 people experiencing homelessness in Queensland, which has an unmet housing need of 152,600 dwellings.
Community Housing Industry Association CEO Julie Saunders emphasised the value of closer engagement between the government and the housing sector to accelerate outcomes. “Community housing providers are ready to deliver,” said Saunders. “Cutting red tape and involving the sector early will help us fast-track housing where it’s needed most – and that’s what the council can enable.”
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