The Queensland Government has announced plans to deliver 20 new purpose-built homes for young mothers and their children who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness, as part of a $30 million housing and support package across Brisbane, Ipswich, Townsville and Mackay.
The homes will be paired with on-site wraparound services aimed at providing early intervention support, stability and a pathway into longer-term housing. The programme is being delivered through partnerships with community housing and support organisations in each location.
According to the Government, the package is intended to address both housing access and the broader challenges faced by young families, including maintaining tenancies, staying connected to education or training, and accessing health and parenting support. The homes will remain dedicated to young mothers and their children, with support services embedded on site rather than delivered separately.
In Ipswich, the Lady Musgrave Trust will deliver 13 self-contained homes. The organisation says the model is designed to help young mothers build confidence, maintain secure housing and remain engaged with education and community services while raising their children.
Townsville will see four new homes delivered by Yumba-Meta Ltd, specifically for single First Nations mothers and their children. The project includes on-site support workers and case managers, with a focus on cultural safety and helping families transition into longer-term housing arrangements.
In Mackay, Connect Housing Group will construct three homes for young parents and children as part of a growing supported community housing precinct. The organisation says the development will support young families in building independence while remaining connected to local services.
In Brisbane, Mercy Community will provide accommodation alongside mental health and parenting support for vulnerable pregnant women and new mothers. The Brisbane programme is focused on supporting women during pregnancy and the early stages of caring for a newborn, a period service providers say is often marked by heightened vulnerability.
Housing Minister Sam O’Connor said the investment reflects the Government’s approach to delivering homes with support built in, rather than treating housing and social services as separate challenges. He said stable accommodation combined with early intervention support can help prevent crisis situations and keep families together.
Community organisations involved in the programme have welcomed the funding, pointing to long waiting lists and growing demand for supported housing among young mothers. Lady Musgrave Trust chief executive Victoria Parker said the Ipswich homes would provide a foundation for young women working to create stability for their children, while Mercy Community acting chief executive Janet Rhodes said access to safe accommodation with specialist support allows new mothers to focus on their wellbeing and their baby’s care.
Yumba-Meta chief executive Dushy Thangiah highlighted the importance of culturally informed support in Townsville, particularly for First Nations families who have experienced repeated housing insecurity. Connect Housing Group executive manager Darren Mew said the Mackay homes would offer young parents a secure base from which to build independence and long-term stability.
The Government has positioned the initiative as part of a broader response to housing pressure in Queensland, particularly for vulnerable groups. While the scale of the programme is modest relative to overall demand, housing advocates often point to supported models as a way to reduce repeat homelessness by addressing underlying issues alongside accommodation.
Construction timelines have not been detailed publicly, though the Government says delivery will proceed in partnership with the selected community organisations. Once completed, the homes are expected to provide immediate relief for young families while contributing to longer-term housing outcomes across the four regions.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
