STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms COFFEY (Griffith) (13:50): Yesterday, I was delighted to welcome the Treasurer back to Stones Corner on Brisbane's south side to see firsthand how a secure home can transform a person's life. The last time the Treasurer joined me at this site, sometime last year, it was still under construction. Today, it is home to 82 new social and affordable homes close to transport, jobs, health care and the essential services that people rely on.

We were welcomed by Janice into her beautiful new home—her castle, as she proudly calls it. Janice's balcony is already filled with plants, and she has shared cuttings with her neighbours, bringing colour to their balconies as well. She's also made friends with the tradies working on a large construction project next door.

When she notices they have not stopped for lunch, she boils eggs, makes sandwiches and calls them over for a feed. Now, when she sees them on the scaffolding, she calls out with a laugh, 'I can see you're not working.' That is what a secure home makes possible. It is more than a key in a door.

It is safety, dignity and independence. It's the freedom to plant a garden, to make friends, to care for others and to feel that you truly belong. These are homes for people who need stability, homes for vulnerable at-risk Australians, homes for essential workers to help keep our communities running and homes that give people the foundation to look ahead with confidence.

A secure home gives people more than shelter. It gives them the confidence to plan, the dignity to participate and the opportunity to thrive.