Greater Whitsunday Housing Summit

The Summit will seek to develop solutions to the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region’s housing issues in line with the priorities identified at the Housing Roundtable in December 2022, that is:

1. Availability and Diversity of Choice both ranked as number 1 priority
2. Affordability
3. Customer Needs
4. Roles and Responsibilities

URBIS have been appointed to gather baseline data prior to the Summit to ensure that the solutions that are developed are grounded in evidence and the reality of the situation in our region. An interim report will be shared with you prior to the Summit for you to inform yourself and also to provide you with an opportunity to provide feedback before the report is finalized.

It is expected that the Summit will result in many potential sub-projects that will be outlined in an Action Plan. This Action Plan will position us well to attract private investment as well as State and Federal spending linked to the funding schemes they have outlined, including:

• Queensland Government’s $2B Housing Investment Fund: The HIF provides subsidies, one-off capital grants and other support to encourage developers, builders, Community Housing Providers, tenancy managers, institutional investors and superannuation funds to partner to develop, finance and operate social and affordable housing across Queensland. https://www.treasury.qld.gov.au/programs-and-policies/housing-investment-fund/
• Federal Government’s National Housing Accord to build 1,000,000 new homes by 2029: https://www.nationalhousingaccord.au/
• Federal Government’s Housing Australia Future Fund - The Budget allocates $10 billion to be invested in the Housing Australia Future Fund; the investment returns from the Fund will fund the building of 20,000 new social housing dwellings and 10,000 new affordable housing dwellings.

We need strategies to access these funding sources for projects that will have maximum impact for our region, and what is important to note is that all of these funding schemes encourage partnerships across a number of key stakeholders. A collaborative Housing Summit provides an opportunity for these partnerships to form.

Join us and be part of the solution.

Greater Whitsunday Housing Summit Code of Conduct

Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) and Regional Development Australia, Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) are committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment where all participants in the Greater Whitsunday Housing Summit can contribute to our collective success. This Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for behavior and sets the standards for everyone associated with the Summit. By adhering to this Code, we create a safe and respectful environment aligned to our respective organisations’ values and principles.

1. Respect and Inclusivity: Treat all participants with respect, kindness, and inclusivity, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, or ability.
2. Harassment-Free Environment: Harassment, discrimination, or any form of intimidation will not be tolerated. This includes offensive verbal comments, unwelcome advances, unwanted physical contact, or any behaviour that creates an intimidating, hostile, or uncomfortable environment.
3. Be Mindful of Language and Behaviour: Use considerate language when communicating with others. Do not engage in any form of offensive, discriminatory, or derogatory language or behaviour.
4. Report Concerns: If you witness or experience any violations of this Code of Conduct, promptly report it to the Summit organisers. They are committed to addressing and resolving any concerns or issues that may arise.
5. Professional Conduct: Maintain professional behaviour throughout the Summit. Avoid disruptive or disrespectful actions that may hinder others' ability to participate or contribute to the Summit.
6. Safety and Security: Follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by the Summit organisers or venue staff. In case of emergencies or safety concerns, seek immediate assistance from the designated personnel.
7. Use of Technology: Respect the privacy and personal data of others. Do not engage in unauthorised access, sharing, or distribution of confidential or sensitive information.
8. Compliance with Laws and Policies: Adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and Summit policies. This includes but is not limited to policies related to copyright, intellectual property, and the use of prohibited substances.
9. Consequences of Violations: Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in appropriate actions, including but not limited to warnings, temporary or permanent expulsion from the Summit, and reporting to the appropriate authorities.

By agreeing to attend the Greater Whitsunday Housing Summit, you are deemed to agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.