Council called to task in crisis

All mayoral candidates and those running in the Gold Coast’s 14 divisions have been “put on notice” about developing a strategy to solve the city’s homelessness and housing crisis.

They have been warned that 22,229 tenants – more than 52 per cent of renters – were facing rental stress on the Coast. More than 56 per cent of low-income mortgage holders – almost 7000 households – were suffering from mortgage stress compared to 49 per cent across the state.

In letters addressed to candidates, Q Shelter provided the update and outlined the key role the council should play in solutions to homelessness, increasing housing supply, and partnering with community providers.

It is the first time in the lead-up to Saturday’s poll that cost-of-living concerns were detailed.

Q Shelter’s executive director Fiona Caniglia said councils were in the front line to help.

“In terms of public attitudes and response to homelessness, they are also key to engagement with the broader community,” she said.

“They often field local concerns about visible homelessness, the welfare of those experiencing homelessness and the community concerns about housing diversity and density.”

Q Shelter wants an expansion of Public Space Liaison Officer (PSLO) roles across the local government sector connected to housing, homelessness and health issues.

“We would also like to see the development of an integrated housing and homelessness strategy to align the work across local government and industry in a place-based framework,” Ms Caniglia said.

“Local governments could consider discounts on development application fees, infrastructure charges and rates for social and affordable housing projects.”