MP Queries Why Home Left Vacant

February 23, 2023

Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington says it is unacceptable a State Government-owned house in Nanango has remained empty during the housing crisis.

Mrs Frecklington said the home at 43 Chester Street – formerly occupied by Dr John Robinson – had remained empty since he left the residence in 2020.

“For two and a half years, this large, four-bedroom home has sat empty while families from our region desperately search to put a roof over their heads,” Mrs Frecklington said.

“I recently asked a Question on Notice of the Minister for the Department of Public Works, Mick de Brenni, about why the property has remained vacant, given the current high demand for housing.

“The Minister claims there has been no demand for government employee housing in Nanango, and they are still deciding what to do with the home.”

Minister De Brenni said the house had been advertised on the government employee housing portal “as per standard processes”.

“To date, there has been no identified need for government employee housing in the region,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Due to the lack of demand for government employee housing in Nanango, the age of the residence and the ongoing maintenance needs of the property, my department will be exploring whether the property is required for use as social housing or preparing the property for return to the private market.”

Mrs Frecklington said it seemed incredible that it had taken nearly three years to make a decision about the home.

“It should have been made available sooner,” she said.

“It also begs the question about how many other State Government-owned homes there are like this that are left empty while vulnerable people can’t find accommodation.

“I am calling on the State Government to make a decision about the house as soon as possible so it becomes available for either social housing or the rental market.”

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