New Queensland cabinet faces urgent housing crisis challenge

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland has welcomed Premier David Crisafulli’s new cabinet appointments as the state grapples with complex housing challenges.

Key housing portfolios have been assigned to Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie for state development and infrastructure, David Janetzki as treasurer and minister for home ownership, and Sam O’Connor as minister for housing and public works.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella highlighted the significance of dedicated ministers for housing and home ownership.

“Queensland has instilled a lot of hope in our new leaders, and there is a real opportunity to show them that housing will remain a key priority of this cabinet,” Mercorella said.

The appointment comes as Queensland faces mounting pressure on housing affordability and availability.

“When you consider how diluted the ‘great Australian dream’ has become for ordinary Queenslanders, and how essential shelter is for every one of us — a plan to bring hope back to housing must take focus,” Mercorella said.

The peak body emphasized the urgency of addressing housing issues ahead of the Olympics.

“Given the urgency of our housing crisis, there won’t be any time to rest on our laurels,” Mercorella said.

The REIQ pledged to work closely with the new government to develop solutions for vulnerable communities, boost home ownership and ease rental pressures.

The organization represents Queensland’s real estate sector, which plays a crucial role in the state’s economy.