Burdekin Shire Council adopts comprehensive Local Housing Action Plan

A strategic initiative designed to address the region’s growing housing needs and enhance community living standards.

The housing crisis in Queensland is multi-faceted and affects both metropolitan and regional areas, including the Burdekin.

A lack of suitable and affordable housing has been identified as a significant risk to attracting and retaining employees across various industries within the Shire. As housing demand increases, upward pressure on rent occurs, impacting affordability and potentially leading to increased social issues such as homelessness.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the newly adopted Local Housing Action Plan represents a positive step towards ensuring affordable and accessible housing for all.

“This initiative not only supports economic growth but also strengthens the social framework of our community. The plan outlines key strategies for housing development, improved infrastructure, and sustainable growth, aiming to attract new residents and businesses to the region,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

“The development of the Burdekin Shire Local Housing Action Plan (LHAP) was a collaborative effort involving key community, business, and rural stakeholders. Council’s role was to facilitate the development of the LHAP in combination with the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), whilst implementation will involve other tiers of government, community housing providers, and the private sector.

“Since receiving project coordination support from the LGAQ, Council has collaborated with Hinchinbrook Shire Council to explore a joint approach to developing LHAPs for both Shires. This joint effort, while maintaining a local focus for each Shire, ensures efficient use of resources and a comprehensive understanding of shared and unique housing issues.”

The final LHAP, now adopted by Council, includes the formation of a Local Housing Action Plan implementation committee. This committee will comprise representatives from the Council, relevant State agencies, community housing providers, and other key stakeholder groups. They will oversee and progress actions, review findings, report semi-annually on progress, and further develop the LHAP as a living document to address local housing challenges.

For more details on the Burdekin Shire Housing Action Plan, please visit the Burdekin Shire Council website burdekin.qld.gov.au or phone Council’s Customer Service Centre on (07) 4783 9800.