THE Property Industry Foundation and South Burnett CTC (CTC) proudly announced the launch of Haven House Kingaroy, a transformative initiative aimed at providing transitional housing for at-risk young people across the South Burnett region. 

South Burnett CTC CEO Jason Erbacher, Property Industry Foundation QLD Events and Engagement Manager Rebecca Field and other invited guests gathered on Thursday 9 May for a sodturn as construction commences on the 4-bedroom duplex for young individuals facing housing instability.  

Property Industry Foundation CEO Kate Mills said this project would help meet significant demand in the region and give youth the opportunity to build a brighter future.

"We are committed to leveraging our network within the property industry to create opportunities for young people to access safe, secure, and supportive housing options,” Ms Mills said. 

“Haven House Kingaroy represents a critical step forward in our ongoing efforts to reduce youth homelessness in the South Burnett."

The project was announced last October at the Foundation’s Inaugural Backseat SleepOut by Brandon, a young man currently living in transitional housing owned by South Burnett CTC.

According to the latest census night in 2021, more than 120,000 people around Australia were estimated to be experiencing homelessness, with nearly a quarter of this number being 12- to 24-year-olds[1]. 

In 2023 alone, CTC supported 29 young people through their hostel for homeless youth in Kingaroy. 73% of these young people were rough sleeping or in non-conventional accommodation prior.

70% of them left the hostel to secure and sustainable housing, with many of these individuals accessing transitional housing like Haven House through CTC.

South Burnett CTC CEO Jason Erbacher said at the heart of Haven House Kingaroy is the unwavering belief in the potential of every young person.

"I'm immensely proud of the partnership between the Property Industry Foundation and South Burnett CTC, which has culminated in the establishment of Haven House Kingaroy,” Mr Erbacher said.

“By providing transitional housing and a holistic support team, we're empowering young people to overcome challenges and strive towards brighter futures. This initiative reflects our dedication to building stronger, more resilient communities.”

“We also want to extend our gratitude to local builder, Peter Hay of Homezone Projects who is bringing Haven House Kingaroy to life. His commitment to the project has been instrumental in turning this dream into a reality.”

This project signifies a momentous milestone in addressing youth homelessness in the South Burnett.

By offering transitional accommodation, Haven House Kingaroy aims to provide a vital stepping stone for at-risk youth until they can secure permanent housing arrangements.