Economic Development Queensland has reversed its decision to use the Hamilton Olympic Village for temporary social housing before the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.
Initially, the plan was to fast-track the construction of the village and offer it as a solution to the state’s housing crisis. With at least 2,000 dwellings intended for Olympic athletes, the Hamilton site was seen as a significant opportunity to provide accommodation for those in need.
However, during a Wednesday hearing, Economic Development Queensland general manager Debbie McNamara announced a plan change. The village will remain vacant until the Games, preceding its initial purpose as a temporary housing solution.
Instead, the government aims to expedite alternative land development for social and affordable housing. McNamara should have provided details on whether the Hamilton Village would remain empty before the Games or when the alternate housing would become available.
This decision comes at a crucial time. Queensland has set an ambitious target of building one million homes by 2046, including 53,500 social homes.
The backflip on the Hamilton Village raises questions about the feasibility of this goal and the commitment to addressing the housing crisis in the short term.
Published Date 31-July-2024