$2 Million Package Strengthens Homeless Support In Mackay

$2 Million Package Strengthens Homeless Support In Mackay

It’s been a significant week for Mackay, with the Government confirming a $2 million funding boost aimed at supporting vulnerable residents and local homelessness services. The package includes $1 million for Chances House, the city’s key drop-in centre, and $1 million for additional specialist services across Mackay and the Whitsundays.

Premier David Crisafulli said the investment offers a “fresh start” for Queenslanders, while Housing Minister Sam O’Connor emphasised backing frontline services and rebuilding the state’s housing system. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton described the funding as a vital boost for the region, and Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster welcomed the support, saying it ensures services can operate safely and sustainably.

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Mackay Receives Lifeline Funding For Homelessness Services

The Government has announced a $2 million funding boost to support some of Mackay’s most vulnerable residents, ensuring essential homelessness services can continue to operate and expand.

The funding includes a $1 million grant to Chances House, also known as the Australian Street Aid Project, delivering on an election commitment to back local organisations supporting Queenslanders experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Chances House is a vital drop-in centre in Mackay that provides meals, support, and referrals to those doing it tough. Since July 1, more than 3,730 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness have been assisted by Specialist Homelessness Services in the Mackay and Whitsunday region.

A further $1 million will support six additional specialist homelessness services across the Mackay and Whitsundays, forming part of the government’s record $589 million, five-year investment in crisis accommodation and frontline housing support.

Premier David Crisafulli said the funding reflects the government’s commitment to delivering a “fresh start” for Queenslanders.

“We are delivering a fresh start by investing in the services to help Queenslanders get back on their feet and have a roof over their head,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Through the delivery of more support for crisis accommodation and specialist homelessness support services, we can help deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders.

“This is about ensuring there is help available for vulnerable Queenslanders when and where it’s needed most.”

Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor said the government was rebuilding the state’s housing system with record investment in frontline services.

“Labor’s social housing waitlist grew by more than 80% over their decade of decline but we’re rebuilding the system with record funding and backing specialist homelessness services who do incredible work every day supporting our most vulnerable,” Minister O’Connor said.

“Chances is one of those vital hubs for local people doing it tough, offering a safe place to have a meal, a shower and access the internet, as well as referrals to essential services including housing.

“This investment locks in funding for day-to-day operations allowing the team to concentrate on helping vulnerable people, rather than fundraising.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the funding would make a real difference to local residents struggling amid the housing crisis.

“Under the Crisafulli Government we’re putting resources where they’re needed – on the frontline,” Mr Dalton said.

“After years of rising homelessness under Labor, this $2 million package – including $1 million for Chances – means local services can focus on helping Mackay residents get back on their feet and into a safe place to live.”

Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster welcomed the announcement, saying the funding would ensure the organisation could continue its vital work supporting the community.

“Having relied on community support for the past seven years, we are very relieved and grateful for this funding opportunity,” Ms Brewster said.

“It enables us to better meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness in our community and, for the first time since establishment, we are supported to provide our many vital services in a safer and more sustainable way.”

The funding forms part of the Government’s record $589 million investment into crisis accommodation and homelessness services across Queensland, ensuring help is available where it’s needed most.

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L-R: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Minister for Housing Sam O’Connor, Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster and Premier David Crisafulli. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The Queensland Government has pledged $2 million to Mackay homelessness services—including $1 million to Chances House—to help vulnerable residents access meals, support, and housing, as part of a broader $589 million statewide investment in crisis accommodation and frontline services. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton

Premier David Crisafulli

Chances CEO Kayleigh Brewster.

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