New social homes in Mundingburra provide a safe and efficient home for Robert and Valma

Published: 

25 September 2024 8:16AM

Having a safe and central place to live is important to public housing tenants, Robert and Valma.

The couple moved into the newly built property on Briarfield Street, Mundingburra in July 2023 and love living there.

The 18-unit complex has been designed to be energy efficient for residents. This includes the position of the building to increase natural ventilation, sun shading and ceiling fans.

Robert says he enjoys the energy efficiency of his home, the feeling of safety and its central location.

“It’s a very efficient little unit to run, it’s got solar hot water – it’s good affordable living for us given that we rely on the pension,” says Robert.

He and Valma also enjoy their garden space.

“It’s got a little front garden which we grow parsley and other plants in,” says Robert.

The couple had been living in a rental apartment but had to move when Robert had difficulty navigating the stairs.

“The rent was always increasing as well, which was another big problem,” he says.

The couple were thrilled when they were told they’d be moving into the property in Mundingburra.

“Having our housing situation sorted took away a lot of uncertainly, because renting, you have to move sooner or later and having that uncertainty when you’re getting old is not a pleasant feeling,” says Robert.

The couple feel secure living in their new home.

“The units are very secure, you can walk in the front door and lock it, and know that you’re safe, and that’s a big thing – not saying it’s unsafe outside – but we’re vulnerable so it’s important to know we’re safe.”

The property is conveniently located near public transport, shops and medical services.

“The hospital is only 10 minutes away, the CBD is 10 minutes away - it’s very centrally located,” says Robert.

“The bus stops right outside, we also have botanical gardens over the road, which is beautiful to walk through. If you want to get out into nature and get some peace and quiet, its right there.”

Robert says he and Valma are more than happy with where they’ve landed.

“We’re lucky to get it, and being brand new, it’s good.”

If you need housing or renting help, call 13 QGOV (13 74 68), contact the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753, or visit Housing help.