Sale helps tackle Noosa's affordable housing issue

The purchase of a housing site in Tewantin by the Queensland Government will help boost social and affordable housing in Noosa. 

The Doonella Street site purchased by the state government.

Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart has welcomed news that the State Department of Communities and Housing has confirmed the purchase of 30-32 Doonella Street in Tewantin. 

“This is a tangible step in helping to increase social and affordable housing in the shire,” she said. 

“Council staff have worked closely with departmental officers to facilitate such a great outcome for our community,” Cr Stewart said. 

“As a council we are doing all we can to address the affordable housing crisis and I am incredibly proud of the diligent work by council officers and Director Kim Rawlings on their collaboration with the State Government to achieve a practical solution.” 

Director of Environment and Sustainable Development Kim Rawlings said staff and State Government officials are now working together to develop plans for the site. 

“Council owns the two car parks adjacent to this site, so there is a potential to consider an integrated outcome across all sites. 

“This is certainly a welcome state government investment into Noosa,” Ms Rawlings said. 

“We had a very constructive on-site meeting last week to explore potential options for the site,” she said. 

The news comes as councillors prepare to discuss the formal adoption of the Noosa Housing Strategy at a Special Meeting on Friday. 

Cr Stewart said the Housing Strategy was critical to tackling the worsening affordable housing situation. 

“This sets out a clear plan for housing in Noosa Shire through to 2041 and considers planning scheme changes, stronger advocacy and partnerships with government and the private sector,” Cr Stewart said. 

“It’s not our role to become a housing provider, but outcomes such as the State Government’s purchase of the Tewantin site is how council can facilitate the creation of more affordable housing,” the mayor said. 

In July and August over 700 surveys and submissions were received during the community consultation on the Draft Housing Strategy. 

“This strategy is about helping to attract and retain critical workers like police officers, nurses and childcare workers to our shire. 

“We also want to make sure we uphold the things that make Noosa an appealing place to live such as the character, look and feel of our towns and villages and our design principles,” Cr Stewart said.