St Vincent de Paul Qld call for stronger families, stronger future in anticipation of State Budget

The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland welcome an anticipated $1b boost towards social and community housing in today's State Budget, with hopes for further support of vulnerable Queensland families to come. 

Chief Executive Officer Joe Duskovic outlined seven key priorities that would help uplift Queensland families and children, including secure housing, early intervention services, education, training and employment pathways and ensuring no families were living in poverty. 

“Access to safe, secure housing is one of the most important ways we can protect our families – but not the only way,” Mr Duskovic said. 

“We’ve seen a renewed focus into child safety which is welcome, but it’s important we also protect children from poverty, homelessness and social isolation.  

“If we can build systems that support families early, removing barriers that keep families trapped in hardship, we can create a better future for the next generation – and for Queensland.” 

The St Vincent de Paul Society have also shared their support the Queensland Council of Social Service (QCOSS) ‘Raising Queensland’ campaign, which calls for a Families Strategy that coordinates commitments across all areas of government, from health to housing to education. 

The QCOSS report found that 61 per cent of Queensland parents are struggling with day-to-day costs, with 14 per cent of parents running out of food within the last 12 months.  

“What we invest into our families now will shape the foundation of our future,” Mr Duskovic said.  

The 2026-27 Queensland Budget will be announced later today.

St Vincent de Paul Queensland’s priorities include: