A $13 million facility, set to house nearly 50 homeless youth in Logan City, is slated for construction in Beenleigh.
The Anglicare development is set to start construction later in the year, and once complete, will provide 24 studio apartments and six one-bedroom apartments for struggling locals.
Anglicare Southern Queensland CEO Sue Cooke said the Manila Street project was designed to support people aged 16-25 who are either homeless or at significant risk of homelessness.
“Sadly, nearly a quarter of Australians experiencing homelessness are aged between 12 and 21,” Ms Cooke said.
“In particular, the South Brisbane-Logan corridor has a significant shortage of immediate need accommodation for young people facing homelessness.
“Anglicare Southern Queensland is committed to doing all that we can to help alleviate the housing crisis.
“We are pleased to commit to this significant project that will support both the immediate need and the long-term success for vulnerable young people.”
The property will be staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and include units for couples and small families.
Anglicare Southern Queensland received development approval from council last week.
A Logan City Council spokesperson told MyCity Logan that the city’s homelessness services could not keep up with demand for housing.
“…. including specialist housing for homeless youth,” the spokesperson said.
“Council has seen an ongoing increase in people living in their cars and in tents across the city and know there are many more residents who are struggling to make ends meet and facing the prospect of homelessness.
“According to the 2021 census, nearly a quarter of Australians experiencing homelessness are aged between 12 and 24, and Logan has a higher rate of homelessness compared to our surrounding local government areas.”
Mayor Jon Raven said many Logan residents were struggling to make ends meet, and called on the state government to do more.
“While it’s great that the Queensland Government is investing in social housing and boosting homelessness services – our community would agree that it’s not enough,” Cr Raven said.
“Vulnerable Logan residents are still falling through the cracks and they need help.
“I’m calling on the Queensland Government to invest in urgent priorities for our city, including a homeless support hub, and more crisis and transitional housing.”
The council spokesperson said that as a not-for-profit organisation, Anglicare received a 25 per cent discount on application fees for the development
Ms Cooke said the development would incorporate best-practice design and management modelling.
“The location has been chosen as it’s close to public amenities including shopping centres, business and civic centres, a local sports centre, public green spaces, and has convenient access to public transport,” Ms Cooke said.
“In addition to accommodation, residents will also receive a suite of wrap-around support services to help improve life skills and increase independence, while providing the care and connections these young people need, through a case-planned process.
Between 2022-23, Anglicare’s services at Beenleigh, Cleveland and Mt Gravatt provided more than 46,500 hours of support for women and young people experiencing homelessness.
“We know that with stable housing and the right support network, young people can positively change their life trajectory by securing employment, education, and long-term housing,” Ms Cooke said.
“At Anglicare, we’re here to help those at risk to find a home, but we know we can’t do it alone. We are seeking corporate donors and partners to help realize this important community project and welcome in-kind or financial contributions of any size.”
Construction is expected to be completed in late 2025.
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