October 24, 2022
The State Government has made changes to fast-track planning approvals for community, social and affordable housing.
Eligible community housing providers are now be able to request an Infrastructure Designation to streamline development approvals.
Deputy Premier Steven Miles said the changes would help address urgent housing challenges.
“Currently, new public housing developed by the State can follow an Infrastructure Designation process which streamlines development approvals,” Dr Miles said.
“We will change the planning rules to allow social or affordable housing projects by community housing providers, that meet the criteria, to also be eligible for an Infrastructure Designation.
“This change will see faster development of social and affordable housing projects right across the State.”
Infrastructure designations provide an alternative assessment pathway to a development application with local government.
Appropriate environmental assessment and consultation is still required. This includes broad community consultation and targeted consultation with local government regarding any infrastructure requirements.
Other community infrastructure eligible to request a designation includes schools, hospitals, emergency services facilities or sporting facilities.
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On Thursday, the State Government said it would double the size of its Housing Investment Fund to help more Queenslanders get into new homes.
“This increased investment means we are now targeting construction of 5600 new social and affordable homes by June 2027,” the Premier said.
Treasurer Cameron Dick said the Housing Investment Fund was designed to provide a long-term, sustainable source of funding to build homes for Queenslanders.
- Related article: Housing Action Plan To Be Drafted
