Gold Coast resident Beryl Roberts is facing an urgent housing challenge as she approaches her 85th birthday. Beryl and her husband, Doug, have been living in the Kirra Beach Tourist Park in Coolangatta for the past 15 years, but they are now under pressure to relocate. The couple, having invested $60,000 of their savings to purchase a caravan in 2011, renovated it into a comfortable home, spending an additional $20,000 on enhancements like a verandah and carport.
Despite owning the caravan, they are required to pay a weekly fee of $115 for leasing the land, which is considerably lower than the prevailing rental rates in the area. Recent statistics indicate that the median rent on the Gold Coast has surged to $850 per week, surpassing Sydney’s median of $760 and greatly exceeding Brisbane’s $670.
In 2018, the City of Gold Coast council disrupted the couple’s retirement plans by announcing that around 80 permanent residents would need to vacate the park by June 2028 to accommodate an influx of tourists. Beryl is one of approximately 27 residents who have declined the council’s buyback offers for their properties.
“It was a complete surprise when we learned about the eviction,” Beryl expressed. “We genuinely believed this was our forever home.” She and Doug turned down a council offer of $60,000, as they could not afford to relocate in a market where the average house price exceeds $1 million. “We simply cannot afford rent, and even finding something to rent is a monumental challenge. Essentially, we face the prospect of homelessness,” she stated, hoping that by voicing their plight, the council might reconsider its decision.
In response to the situation, the Gold Coast council has committed around $10 million to assist residents in transitioning by buying back homes as part of a broader strategy to convert its seven tourist parks into short-term accommodation for tourists. The council aims to tap into a lucrative tourism market, with costs for a two-night stay in a cabin for two adults averaging around $340, making it an appealing choice for visitors.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate defended the council’s actions, asserting that residents have had sufficient time to seek alternative housing. “Many have accepted our buyout offers,” he noted. “Legally, we were required to give one year’s notice, but we provided ten. I believe we have acted fairly.” He emphasized that the caravan park is public land and must be utilized in the community’s best interest. “We can facilitate their relocation, but we will not be extending the deadline,” he affirmed.
Fiona Caniglia, the chief executive of Q Shelter, pointed out the severe limitations in housing options amid a tight rental market. She mentioned that some individuals might qualify for social housing, but highlighted the challenges, noting that approximately 2,100 households are currently on the waiting list for social housing on the Gold Coast, with an average wait time of 35 months. She called on all levels of government to collaborate with community organizations to assist those struggling to find stable long-term housing.
