Evictions from Queensland public housing triple in one year

Queensland has seen a threefold increase in public housing evictions over the past year, following the implementation of a new behavior policy. The policy, introduced by the state government, mandates immediate eviction and a two-year ban from social housing for tenants engaging in severe or illegal activities, such as assault or drug manufacturing. Tenants who receive three warnings for serious behavioral issues, including aggressive language or deliberate damage, within a year also face eviction.

In the first year of the policy, from July 1, 2025, to June 30 this year, 122 households were evicted. Of these, 56 were for dangerous or severe behavior, and 84 individuals received bans from social housing for up to two years. An additional 91 households left their homes after receiving eviction notices but before their cases reached the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).

“

Our message is simple: if you respect your neighbours and meet your responsibilities as a tenant, we'll go above and beyond to help you sustain your tenancy. But, if you repeatedly engage in serious antisocial behaviour, there will be consequences.

This marks a significant rise from the previous year, when only 39 households were evicted under the former "fair expectations and antisocial behaviour policy." Housing Minister Sam O'Connor stated that the new approach empowers housing officers to take action, sending a clear message that serious or repeated antisocial behavior will have consequences. He emphasized that while the majority of tenants behave responsibly, a small minority has negatively impacted their neighbors.

Despite the government's stance, housing advocacy groups have raised concerns. Penny Carr, chief executive of Tenants Queensland, described the rise in evictions as "concerning, but not surprising." Her organization has seen an increase in people seeking support, highlighting the uncertain future many displaced households will face. Carr also noted that some tenants may be facing eviction for behaviors that contributed to their initial housing needs.

“

We have definitely seen an uptick in people asking for support, but that is a lot of households that are going to face a very uncertain future.