Gold Coast families struggle to survive in Australia's most expensive city

Gold Coast residents are spending more than 90% of their income on rent with nothing left over for emergencies, as the St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland reports a significant increase in the number of locals struggling with housing costs. 

Gold Coast Society President Tony Moore said since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising housing and rent costs had become of the main reasons vulnerable families were seeking support from the Queensland charity.  

“We hear from people paying more than 90-95% of their income on rent, with nothing left over for emergencies,” he said. 

“It’s not a sustainable way to live but with such a lack of affordable housing options on the Coast, the alternative is often homelessness.  

“Even a lunch at McDonalds can become an unattainable luxury. 

“We’ve heard from families who, despite working full-time jobs, can’t afford new school shoes or textbooks for their children.” 

According to data from Ray White, after an 8.6% increase in the last 12 months, Gold Coast residents are now paying a median weekly rent of $950 for a house. 

That’s higher than both Sydney ($810) and Melbourne ($575). 

The Society is looking to raise $750,000 to support Gold Coast residents experiencing or at risk of homelessness at the upcoming Vinnies CEO Sleepout on 18 June.  

Local business and community leaders will spend the night sleeping on cardboard, while fundraising to help deliver safe, affordable housing.  

Mr Moore said in an average week, the Society would hear from dozens of Gold Coast residents experiencing homelessness.  

“If you’re on income support, there’s basically no hope of affording a private rental unless you’re willing to live in crowded conditions with 5 or more other people,” he said. 

“Some people experiencing homelessness have trauma or mental health issues that just don’t make that realistic – they’d prefer to live on the street than with others. 

“Finding a home is one thing, but having a strong support network is vital to be actually exit the cycle of homelessness for good.” 

The Society is currently constructing 60 community and affordable units in Nerang, where residents will have access to wrap-around support services to encourage long-term stability and keep people out of homelessness. 

This project is supported by funds from previous CEO Sleepouts on the Gold Coast, along with support from the State Government. 

Gold Coast community and business leaders are still encouraged to register for the Vinnies CEO Sleepout by visiting ceosleepout.org.au