Work on Queensland’s largest social housing project begins next week, aimed at downsizers in an attempt to free up larger homes for families.
The 490-home complex in the Cairns suburb of Woree, in Far North Queensland, will feature 245 social, 223 affordable and 22 specialist disability apartments.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the joint Federal-State project would use modular homes built in Australian factories.
Prime Minister Albanese said the purpose-built, architecturally-designed precinct featured modern, low maintenance and energy efficient one and two-bedroom homes for people over 55 and those with disability.
“It’s aimed at older Queenslanders who are looking to downsize from their current home and in turn free up larger homes for families,” he said.
Prime Minister Albanese said the complex was among landscaped gardens and picnic grounds and had direct access to transport routes, the Bruce Highway, local shopping centre and the Woree Aquatic Centre.
“Adopting innovative construction methodologies, FCC Construction Australia will be joined by local modular housing supplier Modscape to help deliver the impressive package of works, with most of the materials and labour planned to be Australian sourced.”
Queensland Premier Steven Miles said once complete and tenanted, Community Housing Limited (CHL) would provide onsite staff and work with support partners to deliver lifestyle programs aimed at reducing social isolation and encouraging active lifestyles.
Premier Miles said construction was anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026.
“This 490-home precinct is the biggest housing build in our state,” he said.
