Queensland social-housing properties were empty for longer between tenancies during the year to June, despite a large register of people seeking housing.
State government data released in response to a parliamentary question show the average vacancy period rose to 42.7 days, compared with 25.1 days in the previous comparable year. In June, 342 homes were vacant, while the July vacancy rate across about 56,000 government-managed homes was 0.6 per cent.
The latest July figure cited by ABC News recorded 44,294 people on the housing register, down from 48,539 in October 2024. Advocates said faster turnaround was important for people facing severe rental stress or homelessness.
Housing Minister Sam O'Connor said repairs, accessibility modifications, contractor availability and material delays can affect how long a property remains unoccupied. The department begins identifying prospective tenants while work is underway.
Source: ABC News report based on Queensland Government data and stakeholder responses.
Image disclosure: The featured image is an AI-generated conceptual editorial illustration. It does not show a specific government property or people on the housing register.
