I am deeply concerned about the allocation of $5.5 million in funding to the new House of India Project, especially in the midst of an escalating housing crisis here in Queensland. This decision affects not just me but countless families within our community who are struggling to find affordable housing. We are faced with a shortage of homes, rising rental prices, and increasing homelessness. Our resources are stretched thin, and it is imperative that our elected officials prioritize the immediate needs of their constituents over unnecessary projects.

The proposed $5.5 million could instead be directed towards building affordable housing or providing rental assistance to those who are most in need. By investing this substantial amount into housing solutions, we could offer a lifeline to families struggling to keep a roof over their heads. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, homelessness in Queensland has increased by 10% over recent years, and yet there are limited affordable housing options available. This funding, if reallocated, could be a transformative step towards addressing these urgent needs.

Additionally, Indian-Australians sent a record-breaking $7.3 billion in remittances back to India in 2024, driven by a migration boom. This figure highlights the strong economic ties, as India was the top recipient of remittances from Australia during that period, surpassing China. Meaning their community could easily raise the funds for it themselves.

If you believe that our government should focus on the immediate and pressing needs of housing affordability and support systems, please join me in signing this petition. Together, we can make a difference and redirect Queensland's focus towards solutions that truly benefit our community.