Chermside Welcomes 34 New Homes for Seniors and Essential Workers

Thirty-four new social and affordable housing units have been completed in Chermside, providing much-needed accommodation for seniors, people with disabilities, and community workers.



The newly completed development on Ethel Street, Chermside, includes 28 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments. Designed by Brisbane-based architectural firm Ultralinea, the building incorporates environmentally sustainable features such as rainwater collection for garden irrigation and solar panels to power communal areas. 

The development also includes communal spaces, such as an alfresco rooftop and ground-floor common areas, to encourage social connection among residents.

Supporting the Community

Chermside development
Photo Credit: DA A006215374

The project aims to provide long-term housing for those on the social housing register, including individuals at risk of homelessness, seniors, and people with disabilities. The social housing component, consisting of 17 units, is allocated to tenants paying rent at 25% to 30% of their household income.

The development also features 17 affordable units aimed at essential workers, such as retail and healthcare staff, offering rents set 25% below market rates.

The building has been constructed to meet accessibility standards, with 31 units achieving Gold level and one unit achieving Platinum level under the Livable Housing Design Guidelines. These features include wider hallways, step-free access, and provisions for grab rails to accommodate mobility aids.

Sustainability and Accessibility

Chermside development
Photo Credit: DA A006215374

Sustainability has been a key focus in the development’s design, with the building targeting a 7+ star NatHERS energy efficiency rating. Bike storage facilities, natural ventilation features, and proximity to public transport aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles. The development offers 31 car parking spaces, including 22 for residents, 9 for visitors, and 43 bicycle spaces.

The housing complex’s location provides easy access to essential services, with the Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside Regional Centre, and various public transport links nearby. Residents will also have convenient access to supermarkets, medical centres, and community facilities such as the local library and aquatic centre.



Future Housing Plans

Completing the Chermside project is part of a broader initiative to increase social and affordable housing across Queensland. To address the housing shortage, the government has committed to building new homes rather than purchasing existing properties.

More projects are expected to follow, with partnerships between community housing providers and financial institutions playing a key role in expanding housing options for vulnerable Queenslanders.

A spokesperson from BHC, the community housing provider involved in the project, expressed enthusiasm about the development and indicated plans to deliver an additional 600 homes as part of their ongoing efforts to tackle the housing crisis.

Published Date 20-Jan-2025