More pages in this section
Reducing the pressure: addressing the housing crisis in regional Queensland
Access to quality and secure housing options is vital to mental wellbeing, but with growing demand for public housing and the rising cost of rentals, regional Queenslanders are continuing to feel the strain of affordable living.
As a part of its commitment to the mental wellbeing of regional Queensland, selectability continues to expand its service offering to provide more affordable options for accommodation, including the introduction of a new dedicated housing portfolio.
Chief Operating Officer Aaron Farrell said appropriate and sustainable housing options were a foundation in mental health recovery and wellbeing.
“The growing need for accessible, secure housing in regional Queensland means that many of our consumers are being left without the important foundations for their recovery journey,” said Mr Farrell.
“Currently more than 80 per cent of public housing applicants in Queensland have a high or very high need for accommodation, and the consumers that we support have the lowest chance of accessing these options.
“Mental health issues can often result in homelessness, so having access to long-term housing options is vital to the wellbeing of our consumers.
“Housing insecurity and the anxiety related to affordability is also associated with poor mental health and an increased risk of suicide."
In response to this, selectability currently has over 40 sites across its footprint dedicated to independent and social housing.
“selectability currently offers a range of accommodation options including long-term, shared accommodation in comfortable, for-purpose homes.
“These properties are used for short-term housing, NDIS-supported Independent living and child safety.”
More recently, selectability announced the appointment of a general manager of service development to expand its housing initiatives.
“This new position will assist in exploring new ways to better support our consumers during this crisis.
“Currently we are looking at working with federal and state governments to build sustainable, accessible housing across our footprint, including Mackay, Burdekin and Ingham.
“This expansion will see selectability contributing a range of housing options for consumers across regional Queensland.”
USEFUL LINKS
selectability acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we provide services and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge those with lived experience and those who support and partner with us to improve mental wellbeing and prevent suicide across regional Queensland.
