Community Debate Over Affordable Housing in Wakerley Development

A proposed townhouse development (SFD-01021) at 652 New Cleveland Road, Wakerley, has sparked debate among residents and housing advocates. The project, designated a State Facilitated Development (SFD), aims to provide affordable housing but has raised concerns over traffic, infrastructure, and community consultation.



The proposal forms part of Queensland’s commitment under the National Housing Accord, which aims to deliver 1.2 million new homes across Australia by mid-2029. The State’s $3.1 billion Homes for Queenslanders plan supports this initiative, introducing SFD as a streamlined approval process for residential projects that include affordable housing.

Affordable housing development in Wakerley under review
Photo Credit: SFD-01021

Located in the Community Facilities Zone under the Wakerley Neighbourhood Plan, the site at 652 New Cleveland Road is owned by The Corporation of the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane. It houses St Jude’s Catholic Church. The development will be managed through a community housing provider, which aims to provide affordable rentals below market rates.

Development Details

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the proposal initially included 44 townhouses but has since been updated to 47 townhouses, featuring a mix of two- and three-bedroom dwellings. Key aspects include:

  • 85% of homes allocated for affordable housing
  • Rent capped at 74.9% of market rate
  • 20-year minimum allocation period
  • Retention of the existing church on-site
  • 79 car parking spaces (including 70 for residents and 8 for visitors)
  • 81 bicycle parking spaces
  • Communal open space of 455.71 sqm
Proposed townhouses in Wakerley for affordable rental housing
Photo Credit: SFD-01021

Community Concerns and Support

Some Wakerley residents have raised concerns about traffic congestion, infrastructure strain, and environmental impact, particularly regarding the removal of established trees and potential overcrowding. Others worry about the long-term maintenance of the development and its impact on the character of the area.

Wakerley affordable housing project faces community concerns
Photo Credit: SFD-01021

A petition has circulated among residents calling for a review of all SFDs and a reconsideration of the project’s approval, citing concerns about community consultation and planning impacts.

On the other hand, housing advocacy groups have expressed strong support for the project, highlighting the urgent need for affordable rental housing in South-East Queensland. They emphasise that rising rental prices and limited availability make developments like this critical for addressing housing shortages.

Community debate on housing development
Photo Credit: SFD-01021

Planning and Infrastructure Considerations

The former Queensland government designated the project as an SFD in December 2024, which streamlines approval and limits appeal options for residents. The current government has now opened the proposal for community feedback until 25 February allowing residents to submit concerns and objections before final approval.

Several technical aspects are currently under review, including:

  • Stormwater infrastructure conflicts with proposed access points
  • Finalising an agreement with a community housing provider
  • Sewer infrastructure considerations
  • Vehicular access and manoeuvring adjustments
  • Tree retention and koala habitat protection measures
Affordable housing Wakerley
Photo Credit: SFD-01021

Next Steps and Future Implications



The development remains under assessment, with stakeholders continuing discussions on balancing affordable housing needs with community concerns. The outcome will likely influence future SFD approvals and broader housing policy directions.

Published 6-Feb-2025