Australia: QGC Awards Housing Contracts

QGC Pty Limited, developer of the Queensland Curtis LNG Project (QCLNG), has awarded contracts to two Queensland companies to build 27 homes in Chinchilla, Miles and Tara.

The natural gas company is investing more than A$13 million to build the properties as part of QGC’s commitment to ease housing pressures during the construction of QCLNG.

The 27 homes will accommodate staff and increase housing stock to help ensure a balance of supply and demand in the towns.

QGC has entered into contracts with Surat Basin Builders Pty Limited, based in Chinchilla, and Sunshine Coast company Vantage Holdings Australia Pty Limited to build the homes, which are due for completion by the end of 2013.

QGC is investing a total of more than A$60 million project-wide as part of its integrated housing strategy.

In July 2012 QGC gave A$5.7 million to a new housing trust established by Western Downs Regional Council to support the development of affordable housing for low to moderate-income families.

The housing strategy, approved by the Queensland Coordinator-General in August 2011, was developed in discussions with councils, government agencies, consultative committees and other LNG proponents to assess community needs.

QGC Vice President Sustainability Brett Smith said the construction would benefit local tradespeople and suppliers.

“QGC will be working across the Surat Basin for many years to come and we want to create lasting benefits for the local community,” Mr Smith said.

“Where possible, the contractors will be using local suppliers and tradespeople to build and fit out the homes.

“In the longer term the homes will help to support a sustainable housing market in Chinchilla, Miles and Tara.”

[mappress]
LNG World News Staff, November 22, 2012