A symbol of hope – social housing project opens in Toowoomba
- simoneworthing
- Sep 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 24
“The Snell Street development is a testament to what can be achieved when community, compassion and purpose come together,” said Major Mark Everitt, Queensland Divisional Commander, at the official opening of the new social housing project in Toowoomba.
“This isn’t just housing – it’s a place where lives will be changed in Jesus’ name,” Mark continued. “We’re grateful to partner with the Queensland Government to bring hope and stability to those who need it most in Toowoomba.”
Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas officially opened the new social housing complex in Toowoomba, approximately 125km west of Brisbane, on Tuesday 9 September.
The project ultimately reflected The Salvation Army’s mission and vision, she added.
A collaboration between the Queensland Government, The Salvation Army and generous donors, this new complex will house 23 families who would otherwise be at risk of being homeless.
The Snell Street site was previously the home of the local Salvation Army’s Family Store and is now being repurposed in an attempt to combat the ever-growing homelessness issue in and around Toowoomba.
“Today we celebrate the opening of a $17 million social housing community delivering 23 modern homes right here in Toowoomba,” said Mark. “It has been a dream of The Salvation Army to better utilise this site, and the significant funds provided by the Queensland State Government have allowed us to now see people with a permanent, secure roof over their heads.
“The Salvation Army is grateful to the Queensland Government in helping make this project a reality.”
The homes consist of 19 one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units, designed specifically for comfort, dignity and connection. Built by McNab Constructions, a long-standing supporter of the Salvos, with tenanting – now completed – managed jointly by Salvos Housing and the Queensland Government.
“This unique Salvos partnership between Toowoomba Corps and Salvos Housing brings church, community and housing together on one site,” said Rendle Williams, External Communications Manager for Queensland.
“The corps worked with Salvos Housing to transition the land so it could be developed for social housing in partnership with government. The project proceeded through Queensland’s Partnering for Growth program with 50/50 government funding, showing what’s possible when mission and government align.
“The ground-floor community care space is embedded in the building and leased back to the corps at no cost, so residents and neighbours can access support, programs and community right where they live.
“Additionally, one of the benefits of this facility is that one third of the people moving in are downsizing, releasing family-sized homes to others on the social housing list.”
Forever homes
Mark spoke about the housing supply crisis and the need for “organisations like The Salvation Army to do what they can to increase the supply of affordable housing options around the state.
“We’re excited to finally open this wonderful facility and welcome deserving locals to move into their new forever home,” he said.
Captain Aaron Reid, Toowoomba Corps Leader, spoke about how “wonderful” it was to see the development complete after so much dreaming, planning and effort.
“The impact it will have in providing much-needed social and affordable housing is truly significant. We’re hopeful that we, the Toowoomba Salvation Army, will be able to walk alongside these new residents, offering ongoing support, connection, and care as they settle into their new homes.”
Chris Karagiannis, Salvation Army Housing CEO, said that the Snell Street development was “more than bricks and mortar – it’s a symbol of hope for the Toowoomba community. It shows what can be achieved when we work together to meet real needs with compassion and purpose. This project will strengthen lives, families, and neighbourhoods for years to come.”
Those in attendance at the official opening also included Sam O’Connor, Queensland Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth; and Cheri Erai-Collins, State Manager, Salvation Army Housing.
