The Palaszczuk Government will fast track approvals for emergency housing needed following a natural disaster.
Temporary emergency housing will be able to be delivered in response to an event – such as a flood emergency – without requiring a planning approval.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Planning Steven Miles said the changes would help address urgent housing challenges.
“Nothing is more important than having a roof over your head – it’s a basic need – and the stories of people without secure housing are heartbreaking,” Mr Miles said.
“We have removed the need for planning approval for emergency housing in communities that have been affected by a natural disaster.
“The devastating flooding in parts of south-eastern Queensland in February and March left thousands of people without a suitable roof over their heads.
“These changes will give faster access to emergency accommodation during a crisis such as that.”
Mr Miles said the amendments came into effect today, ahead of the next disaster season.
“The recent forecast from the weather experts that the coming summer will be much the same as the last – which saw large areas of the state devasted by wild weather – makes this an important, timely change,” Mr Miles said.
“For example, state and local government could plan ahead sites where demountable housing could be put in – like showgrounds – to give people who have lost their homes in a flood an immediate, temporary housing solution.
“The amendments will mean there will be more locations where emergency accommodation can be installed quickly, allowing local and state governments to support affected communities with temporary housing until permanent housing options are secured.
“Importantly the amendments will also encourage councils to proactively identify suitable land within their local government area for emergency housing – so they can support their communities.
“Everyone knows natural disasters will come to Queensland – and more regularly as the climate continues to change – so getting planning in place beforehand is crucial.”
The amendment to the planning framework comes into effect today (Friday 21 October 22).
