THE latest round for Queensland’s Housing Investment Fund (HIF) has seen 71 housing project proposals shortlisted, making a dent in the government’s 5,600 home target.
The shortlisted proponents for the latest round of funding are set to address demand for social and affordable housing across the state, with 60% of the proposals for homes outside of Brisbane.
Following the expressions of interest process, the proponents will be invited to deliver detailed proposals for government consideration.
The current round focuses on ready-to-proceed projects, meaning construction could commence as early as 2024.
“Every Queenslander deserves a roof over their head. To tackle the impact national housing pressures are having here, we need to work with industry to look at new solutions and ways of doing things – that includes unlocking more affordable housing,” said Meaghan Scanlon, housing minister.
Former rounds of the HIF have already expected supported a fund pipeline of over 1,500 homes.
The $2 billion fund was conceived to provide subsidies, one-off capital grants and other support to encourage the development, finance and operation of social and affordable housing all over the Sunshine State.
“The Housing Investment Fund means that Queenslanders will be able to continue to access critical funding for housing projects not just now but into the future,” added Scanlon.
“What’s clear is all levels of government, industry and the community housing sector need to continue to work hand-in-hand to address national housing pressures as quickly as we can.”
Expression of interests were opened for private projects in February, with 199 proposals submitted and assessed for value for money, timely delivery and the capability and experience of the 115 proponents.
