Energy Estate Pty Ltd, in partnership with Hinman Group, through their joint venture Accommodation Solutions Australia Pty Ltd (ASA), has announced the development of two major workforce accommodation villages in Central Queensland: Rockhampton Workers’ Village and Gracemere Workers’ Village.
This initiative seeks to address the critical shortage of worker housing while providing long-term solutions to the region’s housing demands.
What’s happening?
ASA is developing two workforce accommodation villages designed to house over 700 workers.
The villages will offer modular homes and various accommodation types that can convert into legacy housing, transitioning into over 350 permanent homes for the region.
These facilities will also include sustainable practices, such as renewable energy solutions, green spaces, and modern social facilities.
Additionally, ASA is integrating electric bus and vehicle charging stations, aligning with the region’s move towards zero-emission transport.
Why it Matters?
The housing shortage in regional areas, particularly those experiencing rapid development from large-scale clean energy projects, is a pressing issue.
These accommodation villages aim to not only meet the immediate housing needs of the workforce but also contribute to the long-term development of housing infrastructure in Central Queensland, creating lasting community value.
Simon Currie, Director of ASA, emphasized the importance of the project: “Energy Estate develops several large-scale clean energy projects across regional Australia and we understand the acute housing pressures in so many of the regions that are hosting these projects. Establishing this joint venture with ASA allows us to not just talk about being a housing net positive renewables developer but to actually deliver housing solutions and create a legacy for the communities, starting with Central Queensland.”
By the Numbers
- 700+ worker accommodation units
- Over 350 permanent homes planned for the region
- Operations commencing in 2025
Zoom in
The partnership between Energy Estate and Hinman Group is built around addressing housing shortages in key regions hosting large energy projects.
This effort starts in Central Queensland with plans to expand and continue the model of sustainable, long-term housing.
Mark Hinman, Founder and Director of ASA, highlighted their dual-focus strategy: “Our approach is twofold. We’re addressing the immediate needs of major infrastructure projects, while simultaneously planning for the long-term housing demands of the Rockhampton and wider Central Queensland region. This strategy ensures that our investments create lasting value for the communities where we build our villages.”
Zoom Out
The larger context of this initiative ties into Australia’s transition to renewable energy and the subsequent demand for workforce accommodation in regional areas.
ASA’s development model includes considerations for environmental sustainability and long-term economic growth for the host communities.
Local Impact
The villages will create job opportunities during their construction and operation phases while addressing the critical housing shortage for workers in the clean energy sector.
By converting worker accommodation into permanent homes, the project also contributes to the local housing market, boosting both the economy and community well-being.
What to look for next
ASA plans to begin operations at the villages in 2025, marking the start of this long-term housing solution for Central Queensland.