October 2008

 Brisbane North Housing Solutions welcomes Leanne Humphrey team leader of Families Plus Supported Accommodation as our Queensland Shelter delegate.

The Branch has continued its series of home sharing forums with the 16 September forum updating progresses on the Seniors Share Housing project, which is expected to trial in the Redlands and Sandgate areas.

 The branch revisited its priorities in view of changes in the private rental and housing markets, One Social Housing System, CAP/SAAP review, and the Federal Government’s Green Paper on Homelessness.

The group reviewed its area goals including:

·         Gathering up to date information on available affordable housing and opportunities for its provision

·         Forming partnerships to develop additional housing

·         Resource sharing and establishment of common goals to increase area representation

·         Recognition as a network that advocates for and develops local responses.

 While considerable progress has been made toward achieving these goals the group agreed that networking, improving data collection and access to ministerial advocacy through peak bodies, implementation of Federal affordable housing initiatives, and establishment of or developing affiliations with housing growth providers within the area require new approaches.  

The group also identified developing an improved knowledge of caravan parks, aged care facilities, boarding houses, community and affordable housing providers and student accommodation as priorities for the upcoming year.