What’s happening?
Multicap, part of the Vertaview Group, officially opened new purpose-built, fully accessible housing in Rockhampton.
The development will provide long-term, comfortable and independent living for up to six people with complex and high-needs disability.
The new homes build on Multicap’s growing presence in the region. They also follow the completion of two fully accessible homes at Jardine Street in 2024.
Interim Vertaview Group Executive of Disability Simon Wardale said the homes were shaped by the people they support.
“Every home we deliver starts with the needs of the people we support.
“These new fully accessible houses offer a living environment where individuals can thrive, feel safe, and enjoy the dignity of a place that truly feels like home,” Mr Wardale said.
Why it matters?
The opening comes as demand for disability housing continues to rise across Queensland, while supply has not kept pace.
The release said Queensland has recorded some of the highest increases in NDIS participants with Supported Disability Accommodation funding. Even so, the number of suitable homes remains short of demand.
That pressure is often stronger in regional areas, where specialist housing can cost far more to deliver than a standard home.
Building Specialist Disability Accommodation usually costs between 20 per cent and 45 per cent more than a standard residential home, depending on the category. Meeting SDA standards alone can add about $90,000 to a standard house build.
Vertaview Group CEO Damian Bell said the project reflects the group’s long-term purpose.
“This development reflects exactly why the Vertaview Group exists, to bring together organisations that share a deep commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact and reinforce the importance of inclusive, community driven housing solutions.
“We’re proud to stand alongside Multicap as they continue to invest in high quality support and environments where people can truly thrive,” Mr Bell said.
Local Impact
Multicap has supported people with disability in Rockhampton for more than 25 years, and this project strengthens that local footprint.
The development was backed by a $2.5 million grant from the Queensland Government, in partnership with participating Mineral Resources industry parties, the Queensland Resources Council and its members.
Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland said the investment would support both independence and regional growth.
“The Queensland Government is passionate about securing a strong future for our regions and making sure locals can find jobs, enjoy life and have the independence they need to thrive,” Ms Kirkland said.
“Additional accessible housing in Rockhampton benefits the broader community by creating greater inclusivity and supporting local economic growth and new jobs within the region.”
The project also delivered work during construction and is expected to support more jobs in care and support services.
By the numbers
- The project is worth $5.7 million, reflecting a major investment in accessible disability housing in regional Queensland.
- The homes can support up to six residents, giving more people with complex needs a chance to live independently.
- About 7.5 per cent of Rockhampton residents reported needing daily assistance in the 2021 Census, showing clear local demand.
- The build created work for up to 30 people during construction and is expected to support up to 12 new Disability Support Workers.
Zoom In
These homes were designed to support comfort, safety and dignity for people with high and complex needs.
That gives residents more choice in where and how they live, while staying connected to their local community.
The opening also builds on Multicap’s recent work in Rockhampton, after two fully accessible homes were completed at Jardine Street in 2024.
Zoom Out
Across Queensland, the gap between disability housing demand and supply remains a major issue.
Regional projects like this show how government, industry and service providers can work together to help close that gap.
Multicap brings more than 60 years of experience in disability support across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Its services include supported independent living, respite accommodation, community programs and specialist disability housing.
What To Look For Next?
This opening may help shape further accessible housing investment in regional Queensland, especially where demand is growing.
It will also be important to see whether more specialist homes are delivered in Rockhampton to meet local need.
