Jobs win for Townsville with $5.5M government-led housing project

Media Release
March 9, 2017

In a win for the local construction industry, the first sod has been turned on a $5.5 million government-led housing construction in Condon.

Visiting the site yesterday, Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said Paynter Dixon Queensland was awarded the contract to construct 16 two-bedroom apartments in Condon.

“This project is part of a $32 million pipeline of government-led construction here in Townsville,” Mr de Brenni said.

“We expect the project to support up to 260 tradies including electricians, concreters, carpenters and painters, as well as 5 apprentices.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper welcomed the construction, and said it would provide an employment windfall for local tradespeople.

“This project is a win for Townsville jobs and for the community,” Mr Harper said.

“All of the building work currently underway on government-led housing projects here in Townsville has been awarded to head contractors with a presence in the region.

“Big or small, these construction jobs support tradies and their families – it makes sense to employ locals on these projects wherever possible, as it provides stability for Townsville businesses.

“And all of these projects will also employ apprentices across various trades, which is great news for young people looking for trade jobs.”

Paynter Dixon Queensland General Manager Brett Johnston said the company opened a regional office in Townsville a decade ago to capitalise on growth within the region.

“We believe in Townsville, its network of subcontractors and the potential for growth,” he said.

“We also have an acute understanding of the workforce and opportunities across the community that allow us to gain insight into fluctuations of the supply and demand forces of the market.”

Mr de Brenni said affordable housing solutions and jobs are both top priorities for the Palaszczuk Government.

“Localised projects like these will serve to further strengthen the Townsville economy,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Across Queensland, we are committed to supporting local building projects as they not only increase the level of investment but they provide real opportunities across communities.”