Queensland Rail is converting old crew quarters into affordable housing for vulnerable women.
The initiative aims to support women, particularly over the age of 55, who more are at risk of homelessness and being victims of domestic violence.
Two unused Queensland Rail properties in Acacia Ridge will be transformed into housing for up to 14 women.
The project, which is supported by the State Government, is already in motion.
Renovations are due to start later this year, with the first site reportedly set to open by Christmas.
Ten additional sites throughout the state are also being explored, including a property at Lota, that could be used for affordable housing.
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The refurbishment, led by Housing All Australians (HAA), will ensure the properties are fit for purpose, while Churches of Christ Housing Services Limited (CCHSL) will manage the properties and allocate tenants once the works are completed.
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said everyone deserved a safe place to live but sadly a lack of affordable housing and homelessness is a real issue affecting many Queenslanders.
“We’re proud to work with Housing All Australians and Churches of Christ Housing Services to give unused buildings a new purpose that will provide relief to people struggling to find a safe place to live,” she said.
Housing All Australians Queensland State Management Chair Mike Myers said he was proud to work with their first government partner.
“After undertaking similar projects in Melbourne, Perth and Hobart, this is our first project in Queensland, and we are proud to work with our first government partner, Queensland Rail and Churches of Christ to show what is possible through true collaboration,” he said.
“HAA calls on other businesses that have a skill, product or service that they are willing to offer pro bono to help refurbish these empty buildings and join the growing group of ‘compassionate capitalists’ that care about those more vulnerable in our community.”
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said he is pleased to support the initiative.
“This project is more than just accommodation – a safe place to call home can change lives, particularly for vulnerable women who may be escaping domestic violence,” he said.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to finding new housing solutions, and I am pleased that Queensland Rail had some options to help.”
