A history of Queensland Shelter

Queensland Shelter first existed in the 1970’s as a voluntary lobby group focussing on the housing needs of people on low incomes.

In 1987, the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless, Queensland Shelter held its first formal meeting to provide a catalyst for many communities to discuss housing issues. This momentum was maintained, especially in South East Queensland as a result of concern over the effects of Expo 88 on the housing situation for people on low incomes.

All the action was not in Brisbane. Housing Forums in Townsville, Rockhampton, Mackay and Cairns formed to enable people living in these regions to contribute to the debate around community housing and other housing issues.The Goss Government came to power in 1989 with a clearly stated intention to carry out major reforms in housing policy and practice in this State. Among these were major changes to the various programs providing funds to community organisations, and major reforms were carried out in the public housing system.

In 1991 Queensland Shelter gained ongoing funding for the first time in its history, through a grant from the then Department of Housing, Local Government and Planning, to establish an office and employ two full-time workers. Queensland Shelter grew into a State wide organisation through its management structure and undertook considerable policy development over the next few years.

State Housing Conferences held in 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004 and 2009 have provided opportunities for the expression of diverse interests, and the framework for the development of Queensland Shelter as an organisation. In 1999, funding was provided from the Department of Housing for a Housing Policy and Network Development worker.

The erosion of the Commonwealth State Housing Agreement (CSHA) has been a feature of the late 1990s and early 2000s. The Agreement has been renegotiated a number of times during this period, and on each occasion the Commonwealth Government has been handing over more responsibility and less funding for housing to the States.

Queensland Shelter now has funding for ten staff members, and sixteen branches are working throughout the State to pursue the policy priorities as developed by our membership, and to promote improved access to housing for all Queenslanders.