Brisbane Lord Mayor Criticizes Decision to Turn Quarantine Facility into Police Training Center
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has expressed disappointment over the Australian government's decision to convert the Pinkenba quarantine facility into a police training center instead of repurposing it for the homeless.
The $400 million facility, completed in October 2022, has never been used for its intended purpose and currently sits empty. Schrinner had proposed converting it into emergency accommodation for the city's homeless population, a proposal supported by the Queensland government with a $10 million pledge.
However, the federal government has decided to hand over management of the center to the Australian Federal Police for training purposes. This decision has been met with criticism from Schrinner, who described it as "heartbreaking" and "an example of the government letting down the community."
He highlighted the plight of hundreds of people living in tents and cars, emphasizing the need for immediate solutions. Karyn Walsh, CEO of Micah Projects, echoed this sentiment, stating the need for investment in long-term housing solutions rather than temporary crisis accommodation.
Q Shelter, an organization dedicated to improving housing outcomes, expressed disappointment over the government's decision, particularly in the context of the ongoing homelessness crisis. They emphasized the urgency of the situation and the need for effective collaboration between all levels of government and community services.
Despite the criticism, the federal government maintains that the decision was made after careful consideration and engagement with various stakeholders. They also retain the ability to redirect the facility for emergency use if necessary.