Project to fill critical need for affordable housing: developer
By Kirra Livingstone
THE organisation behind Beerwah’s tallest and largest housing development says the not-for-profit social housing project will fill a critical gap in affordable housing on the Sunshine Coast.
Community housing provider BlueCHP is building a five-storey, 70-unit social and affordable housing development at Free Street – opposite the Beerwah Railway Station.
Land clearing commenced in December last year, with construction expected to be completed by 2026.
The project will include 58 one-bedroom units and 12 two-bedroom units, along with a ground-floor car park with 88 spaces.
The housing is designed to cater to individuals and families with short or long-term accommodation needs.
“The units are delivered to be social and affordable housing, which will support the Sunshine Coast community, boost the local economy, and address the region’s housing crisis,” a BlueCHP spokesperson said.
“It offers the much-needed secure, stable, and affordable options for low-income families, seniors, and essential workers, reducing homelessness and fostering inclusive neighbourhoods.
“Managed by the government or community housing providers like BlueCHP, these homes support short- and long-term tenancies and provide residents with a safe space to live, pursue education, and access employment opportunities.”
The spokesperson explained the distinction between social and affordable housing, saying that social housing provides secure rental options for eligible households.
“Affordable housing, on the other hand, is offered at a rental price point that is affordable for low- to moderate- income earners, typically set as a percentage of the market rate,” they said.
“For a home to be considered affordable, it must meet the resident’s needs while leaving sufficient income for other essential expenses.
“Together, social and affordable housing contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and supportive community.”
The spokesperson proudly spoke of the development’s compliance with Gold Level Social Housing Design Guidelines, noting accessibility features such as wider doorways, hallways, and grab rails.
“The architectural design carefully balances the scale of the project, presenting as three separate buildings on a common elevated podium,” they said.
“This design provides significant separation between dwellings, enhances crossflow ventilation in all apartments, and reduces foot traffic near individual units.”
BlueCHP CEO Charles Northcote described the project as an ambitious endeavor located in a town with “outstanding access to the broader region”.
“This cleverly designed project will provide much-needed affordable homes within a thriving local community,” he said.
The project is in partnership with the Queensland Government and Commonwealth Bank.
kirra@gcnews.com.au
