With Noosa’s current housing crisis continuing to escalate Noosa MP Sandy Bolton has taken the extraordinary step to put a callout to property homeowners to assist in urgent endeavours to provide accommodation for our workers and their families.
“This situation where the lack of rentals is impacting our economic and social fabric is complex and the result of two decades of shortfalls, and a current ‘perfect storm’ of other contributors,” she said.
“With demand far outstripping supply we have now come to a critical situation where our businesses struggle to access or keep staff through a lack of suitable and affordable accommodation for them” said Ms Bolton. “This week alone 5 of our working families have been in the unenviable position of couch surfing, and I thank our community for assisting in the search for accommodation”
Under the Community Rent Scheme (CRS) program, organisations such as Coast2Bay Housing Group and Youturn, lease properties directly from the private sector through Real Estate Agencies or from the lessor. The lease instrument is called a Headlease under the Property Law Act, which allows these community managers to subsequently sublet the property to tenants with subsidisation. There are many benefits to the community management of properties including, owners are guaranteed their rentals with no arrears or loss of income through vacancies, 24/7 emergency service for tenants, and ensuring that any unfair wear and tear is covered after each tenancy.
“We are seeking anyone who would consider putting their properties under the CRS program to contact their preferred agent or organisation as part of these efforts” Ms Bolton said.
Mayor Clare in her address to Noosa Councillors at Council’s December Ordinary Meeting solidified the intent to investigate land for potential projects which had been identified previously. In addition, work with the private sector on possible partnerships.
“Noosa Council continues to support looking at all avenues and options in regard to affordable housing in Noosa Shire. Noosa Council is committed to working with our State MP Sandy Bolton in regard to this very important community issue.” Mayor Stewart said.
“Between Council and State, we will work together to assist our valued workers, their families and our retirees to remain within our Shire whilst supporting our businesses to retain much needed staff.”
