Gehmf Policy Conduct

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Queensland Government

Government Employee

Housing Scheme

Policy & conduct

February 2006

Department of Public Works

Queensland Government Accommodation Office Providing whole-of-government accommodation services


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Contents

Section 1 2

History of the Government Employee Housing Scheme

Section 2 4

Government policy for the conduct of the Scheme

Section 3 9

Scales and Standards of Housing

Annexure A to Scales and Standards of Housing

Standard for family housing

Annexure B to Scales and Standards of Housing

Standard for multiple tenancy dwellings

Annexure C to Scales and Standards of Housing

Standard for furniture

Section 4 12

Conditions of allocation of government employee housing from theDepartment of Public Works

Appendix A 19Tenancy Advice Notice

Appendix B 20

Form 18a General Tenancy Agreement Special Terms

Queensland Government Accommodation Ofce

Department of Public WorksGovernment Employee Housing Scheme

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Section 1

History of the Government Employee Housing Scheme

The Government Employee Housing Scheme

1. On 22 November 1993, the Government combined all agency housing schemes into oneGovernment Employee Housing Scheme (GEHS). The aim was to address inefficiencies

with regard to property management of the Governments total housing asset base,

and resolve inconsistencies and inequities in the conditions of employment between

Government employees. The Scheme was subsequently implemented in July 1994, and

placed under the guidance of an Inter-Departmental Housing Management Committee

(IHMC) that comprised representatives of all house-owning departments. The IHMC

reported through the (then) Minister for Administrative Services.

2. On 18 December 1995, all Government employee housing was placed under the control

of one agency, the Government Employee Housing (GEH), of the (then) Administrative

Services Department (now Department of Public Works (DPW), with the portfolio to be

managed on a commercial basis under the guidance of the IHMC.

3. In early 1996, the Government appointed an Inter-Departmental Committee to review

the Scheme. On 16 December 1996, the Government decided to retain a decentralised

model of ownership and management of employee housing. The Housing Management

Committee (HMC) was appointed to oversee the management of housing assets on behalf

of the Government. It comprised representatives from the Office of the Public Service,

Queensland Treasury, the (then) Department of Public Works and Housing and the

Department of Education, and one of the major house-owning departments Queensland

Police Service, Department of Health or Department of Primary Industries on an annual

rotating basis, with the other house-owning departments as ex officio members.

4. An additional requirement was that the HMC review the GEHS by mid 1998 to gauge

the effectiveness of this structure and make recommendations to the Government. On 30

November 1998, the decentralised model of management was confirmed, and the role of

the HMC was redefined to:

provideaforumforinformationsharingonhousingmattersthroughtheconductof

regular periodic meetings

providecoordinationofanyhousingmattersbetweenagenciesasdecidedbythe

Committee

coordinateinputtopolicydevelopmentregardingscalesandstandardsforemployee

housing.

5. Membership of the HMC was expanded to include representatives of all owner and lessee

departments with an interest in employee housing.

6. The Government currently provides approximately 4,050 dwelling units throughout the

State. Major house-owning agencies are (approx):

DepartmentofEducation 1700

DepartmentofPublicWorks 816

QueenslandPoliceService 760

Others 770

7. Additionally,about200housesareleasedbysomeagenciesfromthepublicrental

housing portfolio to supplement department owned housing.



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Rents

8. On 1 July 1984, economic rent (based on the cost of providing housing) was introduced.

This was subsidized by 60%, 50% and 40% based on the particular salary grouping of an

officer. During a three-year transitional period, annual incremental adjustments were set

in place to achieve the subsidized economic rent levels. Recalculation of the economic

rentals was to occur every three years, with automatic percentage increases during the

intervening years to take account of State Basic Wage and Award adjustments.9. In1984,themaximumeconomicrentalforhouseswassetat$75perweek,andfor

hostels at $120 per week. Additionally, rebates in rental were introduced for those officers

occupying official dwellings of a lower standard, and/or in the less desirable areas of the

State.

10. On15December1997,Governmentapprovedthatdepartmentsdeterminetheirown

rental policies (subject to Cabinet approval) regarding:

rentalforGovernmentprovidedemployeehousing,includinglocationsandindividual

circumstances in which any rental allowances/subsidies are to be provided

anyrentalallowancesforemployeesappointedortransferredtoacentreandutilizing

the private rental market: this should be considered wherever practicable, in the

context of any remote area incentive scheme.

Role of the Government Employee Housing, Department of Public Works

11. The Government Employee Housing (GEH) of the Department of Public Works (DPW)

adopts a lead agency role in the management of Government employee housing. GEH also

acts as the Secretariat to the HMC.

12. GEH provides a range of accommodation, primarily for non-owner and minor owner

agencies (less than 10 non-operational houses), and also to supplement owner agencies

housing as resources permit.

13. DPW charges full market or economic rent

1

to each client agency.

1 Economic rent is a method of determining housing rentals based on the overall cost of

providing and maintaining official dwellings. The formula amortises the cost of land acquisition,

construction and fit-out; and adds in averaged costs for administration, maintenance, rates and

electricity (where applicable).



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Section 2

Government policy for the conduct of the Scheme

Aim of the Scheme

1. The aim of the Government Employee Housing Scheme (GEHS) is to coordinate theproperty management of Government employee housing.

Objectives of the Scheme

2. The objectives of the Scheme are to:

supportthetransferandretentionofstaffwithrequiredskillsandqualificationsto

locations dictated by service delivery needs

ensuretheprovisionofhousinginthoseareaswherethereisarecognisedshortfallin

private rental accommodation

provideastandardofaccommodationthatiscommensuratewithlocalcommunity

standards and established policy guidelines managetheGovernmentsemployeehousingassetssothatitcanoperateona

financially viable basis and attain a level of self-sufficiency.

GEHS portfolio

3. The GEHS encompasses the entire Government portfolio of residential accommodation

controlled and managed by various departments, eg Education Queensland, Queensland

Police Service, Department of Public Works. The policies herein apply to all such housing.

Management

4. House-owning agencies are primarily responsible for the provision of housing in supportof their delivery of Government services. Non-owner or minor owner agencies (less than

10 non-operational houses2 ) rely upon the Department of Public Works (DPW) for the

provision of housing. DPW also supplements the housing needs of owner agencies as

resources allow.

5. Housing owned or under lease by the DPW:

isavailabletodepartmentsonthebasisthatarequestingdepartmentwillpaymarket

or economic rent3 to DPW for the house. An additional charge is applied to cover

the costs of providing furniture (where applicable) and electricity charges for singles

accommodation

whereahouseinacentreisnotrequiredbyanydepartmentforitsemployees,the

house may be rented to a private tenant who will be required to pay full market rent4

alloperatingcostsarepaidbyDPW,whichdeductscostsfromtherentalincomestream.

2 Operational housing is defined as dwellings that are attached/adjacent to operational business

premises that require a staffing presence after hours to ensure the delivery of Government

services. Examples of such accommodation are a police residence attached/adjacent to a police

station; a State Water Resources Project house located on a dam site; or ambulance officeraccommodation forming part of an ambulance station.


providing and maintaining official dwellings. The formula amortises the cost of land acquisition,construction and fit-out; and adds in averaged costs for administration, maintenance, rates and

electricity (where applicable).

4 Renting to the private sector is a short term measure. When a house remains vacant for more thanfour months, the long term need for it is reviewed, and it may be sold.



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Housing Management Committee

6. The GEHS is overseen by the Housing Management Committee (HMC), which comprises

representatives of all owner or lessee agencies with an interest in employee housing. The

duties of the HMC are:

provideaforumforinformationsharingonhousingmattersthroughtheconductof

regular periodic meetings

providecoordinationofanyhousingmattersbetweenagenciesasdecidedbytheCommittee

coordinateinputtopolicydevelopmentregardingscalesandstandardsforemployee

housing.

7. TheHMCoperatesundertheguidanceoftheMinisterforPublicWorksandMinisterfor

Housing, with the Chair and Secretariat being provided by DPW.

8. Each house-owning agency with more than 10 dwellings is required to include employee

housing as a discrete category in its Capital Investment Strategic Plan (CISP) (see the

Queensland Treasury guidelines).

Eligibility for housing9. There is no entitlement to a Government house unless stipulated in an award condition.

10. To be eligible for Government housing, employees must meet the following criteria:

beemployeesoftheQueenslandGovernment(thisreferstoalloccupations)

beappointedortransferredtothelocationfromanotherlocationtomeeta

Government service need

and

theemployeeand/orspouse/partnermustnotown,eitherdirectlyorindirectly,a

private dwelling within a 45 kilometre radius of the same location

or

beinanoccupationwhichstipulatestheprovisionofhousingunderaward

conditions.

11. Special consideration will be given to employees whose particular housing needs preclude

them from accessing private rental market housing; e.g. where a member of the family

has a disability. Where modifications to a house are required, costs will be assessed

and apportioned on a case-by-case basis between the employees department and the

participating department that owns the house.

12. If the tenant ceases to become eligible for occupancy of Government employee housing,

the tenancy may be terminated under the provisions of the Residential Tenancies and

Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 as amended by the Residential Tenancies Amendment

Act 1998 (hereinafter referred to as the Act).

General Tenancy Agreement

13. The Scheme is intended to provide housing for employees of the Queensland Government

who are appointed or transferred from another location. As a general rule, it is considered

that a reasonable appointment period or transfer cycle for such employees is no more

than five years, and after this time, the employee has elected by default to become a

permanent resident of a centre or location.

14. All Government employees occupying Government employee housing are required to sign

a General Tenancy Agreement in accordance with the Residential Tenancies and Rooming

Accommodation Act 2008 . Private tenants will be normally required to sign a fixed term

agreement and pay the prescribed bond.



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15. Leasing agencies are to obtain from the tenant an acknowledgement through the Special

Terms of the General Tenancy Agreement of the following provisions:

Iftheemployeeand/orspouse/partnerpurchasesaresidenceinthesamelocation,

they must advise the lessor with the full understanding that they will be required to

show cause why their tenancy should not be terminated at two months notice.

Thetermofthetenancyisnotexpectedtoexceedfiveyearsandthat,ifthetenant

is still occupying the house after this time, the tenant may, subject to departmental

operational requirements, be asked to show cause why the tenancy should not be

terminated upon six months notice.

16. Departments should periodically review the allocation of residences and rental structures

to maximise assistance to employees who have been subject to recent appointment or

transfer to a centre from another location.

17.Theadministrationoftenantsistobeconductedinafairandreasonablewayandin

accordance with the Act and other established protocols and procedures incorporated in

the relevant Statutes of Queensland.

18. All departments are required to comply with the provisions of the Act.

19. Consistent standards of tenancy administration and common documentation are to beused by all departments. The Special Terms to the Form 18a General Tenancy Agreement

adopted by the Queensland Government is at Appendix A.

Rent

20. Where one department agrees to place one of its employees in a house owned by another

department, market or economic rent as appropriate is to be paid by the one department

to the other, unless the owner department determines otherwise.

21. Unless otherwise determined by Government, subsidised rental rates for Government

employees will continue under the salary base structure approved by Government in

1984.

22. Private tenants (whether Government employees or not) who rent a Government

employee house from the Scheme are to pay full market rent.

23. Unless excluded by the Government decisions in 1984 (which apply to unmarried

employees in shared accommodation), tenants are to pay for all energy consumption.

Scales and standards of housing

24. A principal objective of the Scheme is to provide consistent standards of accommodation

across all departmental housing stocks that are commensurate with the standards of

living and lifestyle expectations of the majority of Government employees. GEHS housing

should reflect local community standards. This may require a flexible interpretation thatleads to the acquisition of housing stocks in certain centres that may vary from GEHS

prescribed standards.

25. The HMC will periodically review standards of accommodation as part of its terms of

reference with the aim of stating realistic and suitable benchmark standards. Appropriate

housing designs are to be used to cater for the various climatic conditions across the

State. Standard amenities and equipment are to be included.

26. The current Scales and Standards for Housing (SSH) are detailed in Section 3. They are

the target minimum standards, and are primarily used as a guideline during the selection

of new acquisitions. Deficiencies in existing housing will not be automatically upgraded

to meet the Standards it is a selective process.



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Capital Works

27. Inprinciple,newGovernmentemployeehousingshouldonlybeconstructedwhere

the private property market cannot provide for the accommodation required for public

servants, or where the standard of housing is manifestly unsuitable.

28. Owner departments should normally acquire houses that are based on the SSH for the

general use of all employees. However, when and where requested, DPW will provide a

house for a department to meet special specifications, e.g. housing for the disabled. Insuch cases, the requesting department will be advised of the costs and options associated

with providing special case housing.

29. Financing of new Capital Works may be achieved from a number of sources. Specifically

it will be done through the sale of assets and the redirecting of the proceeds back into

the respective owner departments housing portfolio. Agencies should seek Queensland

Treasury advice regarding the retention of proceeds of sales specifically for housing

purposes.

30. Planned upgrades require access to Capital Works funds. Upgrades should occur in

accordance with identified benchmark standards, and in terms of prioritised annual

programmes projecting forward at least three years.

Rationalisation

31. In 1994, the Government redefined the criterion for the acquisition and retention of

employee housing. Government employee housing is to be provided in country and

remote areas where the private rental or property market is unable to provide a suitable

standard of housing to employees on transfer.

32. The Government has approved full rationalisation of employee housing in those

provincial centres listed below:

Brisbane

SunshineCoast GoldCoast

Cairns

Townsville

Mackay

Rockhampton

Gladstone5

Bundaberg

Maryborough

Gympie

Toowoomba Ipswich

HerveyBay(added1997).

33. Each agency may determine the need for realignment of housing assets in these areas. As

a general rule, only operational housing should be retained in these areas.

34. The HMC is empowered to select additional centres for full rationalisation. Individual

agencies may choose where they wish to provide or relinquish housing.

5 A moratorium on the disposal of houses in Gladstone took effect in 1995. Agencies should

monitor the rental situation in Gladstone with a view to full or part rationalisation in the future.



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35. Treasury will consider 100% retention of funds by agencies from rationalisation sales for

use in satisfying new housing requirements in the rural and remote areas of the State

where there is no viable rental market.

Disposal of buildings by purchase and removal

36. Where surplus Government buildings are determined to be suitable for relocation:

buildingsvaluedinexcessof$5,000aretobepubliclysoldforremoval buildingsvaluedat$5,000orlessaretobeofferedforsaleforremovaltoapproved

community groups at half the removal valuation:

initially through a nomination process involving the Local Member of the

Legislative Assembly

in the event that the Member is unable to nominate a suitable organisation within

a period of 14 days, then by public offer following newspaper advertisement

variationtotheabovemonetarylimitstoreflectincreasingprice/costlevelsmay

occur at Ministerial discretion.



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Section 3

Scales and Standards of Housing

Introduction

1. The development of policy, including the Scales and Standards of Housing (SSH)for housing provided to Government employees, is the responsibility of the Housing

Management Committee (HMC). The Inter-Departmental Housing Management Committee

(IHMC) developed the current SSH in 1994/95.

2. The SSH are intended to be a guide to all departments involved in the purchase,

construction and upgrading of dwellings for occupancy by Government employees. In the

interests of equity and general standardisation of Government employee housing, they

should be adhered to as closely as possible.

Aim of the Scales and Standards

3. The aim of the SSH is to establish the target minimum standards for housing provided toGovernment employees.

Application of the standards

4. The SSH have been developed as guidelines to be applied by departments in the following

circumstances:

Intheconstructionofnewhouses,theSSHaretobeusedintheDesignBriefto

suppliers. The SSH provides sufficient scope for a range of design options to be

developed to meet the requirement.

InthepurchaseofexistinghousingtheSSHaretobeusedasaguidefordepartments

and their agents to identify houses suitable for further consideration.

IntheplanningofcapitalworksupgradestoexistingGEHShousingstock,theSSH

are to be used to provide the benchmark features or components of the house. The

features contained in existing housing will not automatically be upgraded to meet

these standards.

5. The SSH is intended to provide desirable minimum targets for the scales and standards

required in GEHS housing. However it is recognised that Government employee housing

should generally conform with local community standards, and in many country areas

the local community standards for specific housing features may differ to those identified

in the SSH. In such situations, a flexible approach consistent with the goal of providing

employees with suitable and comfortable housing is to be adopted.

Housing concept

6. Under the SSH, housing will generally conform to the following parameters:

astandardthreeorfourbedroomhousedesignedandacquiredforthespecific

purpose of accommodating family units

or

astandardoneortwobedroomunit/flatdesignedandacquiredforthespecific

purpose of accommodating single occupants without dependants.



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7. Toenableincreasedflexibilityinhouseallocationbetweenfamilyunitsandsingles,

a proportion of housing may be a hybrid of the above. For example, a family home

with three large bedrooms and an ensuite or second bathroom could also be used to

accommodate three singles. Alternatively, a couple with one or no children may be

accommodated in a unit/flat.

8. Housing that falls outside these parameters may be acquired or retained for the following

reasons:

toaccommodatefamilieswithalargenumberofdependents

toprovidespecialfacilitiesforemployeesordependentswithphysicaldisabilitiesor

special needs

or

tomeetthespecificrequirementsofprofessionalappointments.

9. These situations are to be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Generally, departments will

be responsible for any additional costs associated with providing these extraordinary

facilities for their employees.

Conformity with Community Housing Standards

10. The housing provided for Government employees should conform to contemporary and

local community housing standards in terms of size, design, features (including climate

control), and the use of building materials.

11. Houses shall generally be sited in safe residential localities which are reasonably

accessible to community facilities, and which reflect a similar standard and style of

housing. Care should be taken to avoid building sub-communities of Government

employees. Employee housing should be dispersed throughout the wider community

wherever possible.

Design concept

12. The design of the house should be such that spaces within the dwelling and adjacent to it

relate to each other so as to provide functional, liveable accommodation planned for the

convenient arrangement of furniture, the maximum use of the available space and ease

of access and egress. While reflecting minimum and desired requirements, the standards

will be applied with sensible flexibility, and in that context, wherever there is a need for

discretion and there is no overall decrease in the level of amenity, compromise solutions

should be considered by agencies.

13. Houses are to be designed for effective energy management, incorporating ceiling

insulation and wall insulation to at least the western wall. Designs must take into account

environmental factors such as favourable orientation/aspect and passive cooling features

(minimised openings in western walls, for example). Outdoor areas should not be built onthe western side of the house where this can be avoided.

14. Houses and units/flats should be constructed to facilitate convenient access for furniture

removal and delivery. This should also be a factor in considering houses for purchase.

Consideration should be given to including certain specifications in some lowset houses

to make them more readily adaptable for occupancy by disabled persons, eg hallway

widths, door sizes, height and type of light switches (refer to AS4299 for details).

15. Outside areas and gardens are to be suitably landscaped and well drained such that

tenants are required to undertake minimal maintenance only. For newly constructed

houses the timing of landscaping works should be planned to coincide with the tenants

arrival.



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Annexure A to Scales and Standards of Housing

Standard for family housing

Functional areas

1. The house should provide: Threeorfourbedrooms

Bathroom(twobathroomsinfourbedroomhouses)

Toilet

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge

Dining

Enclosedcaraccommodationfortwovehicles

Lockableweatherproofstoragearea

Pergola Verandah(optionalinlowsethouses)

Entry(optional)

Hallway(optional)

Twosetsofstairs.

Floor areas

2. The minimum enclosed living area of a three bedroom house (excluding car

accommodation and storage area) should be 110 m2, and for a four bedroom house 120 m2;

comprising the following rooms/areas:

Bedroom1(excludingbuilt-inwardrobe)12m2

Bedrooms2&3(excludingbuilt-ins)10m2

Kitchen12m2

Bathroom8m2

Toilet1.5m2

Lounge22m2

Dining12m2

Laundry6m2

Pergola15m2

Storagearea9m2

Circulationspaceandaccesswaysasrequired

Ceilingheight2700mm

Entryareasfrontandreartobesheltered.



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Floor fnishes

3. Subject to item 4, the floor finishes should be:

carpetofaqualitythatishardwearinganddoesnotshowmarkseasilyinbedrooms,

lounge rooms and hallways

sheetvinylinkitchensanddiningrooms

ceramictilesintoilets,bathrooms,laundriesandentries

concretewaterproofedfromrisingdampinstorageareasandcaraccommodation non-slipsurfacesonexposedsteptreads.

4. In hot, tropical or dusty areas, consideration may be given to alternate and appropriate

floor finishes other than carpet such as non-slip ceramic tiles, vinyl or polished boards.

Painting

5. All surfaces should be given two finished coats of paint with primer/sealer and undercoat

as required. Paint finishes should be:

externalsurfacesglossfinish

internalsurfaceslowglossfinish(exceptforarchitraves,skirtings,etc.,whichshall

be gloss finish)

compressedFCsheetingmattfinishacrylicresinabrasionresistantsurfacetopping

with sealer coat.

Storage area

6. The storage area should be lockable, weather proof and rodent proof. It may be a

freestanding garden shed, an area within the car accommodation or under the house.

If within the car accommodation or under the house, suitable open shelving is to be

provided.

Car accommodation

7. Thecaraccommodationshouldbeenclosedandsecureandsuitablefortwomotor

vehicles. If free standing there should be covered access provided to the dwelling.

Landscaping and outside works

8. Standard outside features of family homes are:

Outdoorrecreationareapavedorconcretedrecreationarea(pergolatype)complete

with solid roof.

Fencing1200mmweldmeshorequivalent,tocloseoffthebackyardwherepossible.

Gates1200mmweldmeshorequivalenttofrontandsidesasrequired(doublegates

to driveway).

Drivewaypavedorconcretedrivewaynotlessthan2.4mwidetorunfromthekerb

to the car accommodation. The concrete driveway is to be 100 mm thick reinforced

with contraction joints to suit.

Clotheshoist5100mmdiameterrotaryclotheshoist.

Pathwayspavedorconcretedpathtothefrontgate,clotheshoistandcar

accommodation if free standing

LetterboxlockableAustraliaPostpreferredletterboxwithstreetnumberattached.

Gardentapstwogardentaps,oneaccessiblefromthefrontyardandonefromthe

back yard.



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TopsoilandturfingFullturfingtothefrontofthepropertyand50percentturf

cover to the balance of the area. Turf is to be maintained for a period of six weeks

after practical completion.

Treesandshrubsanallocationoftreesandshrubsselectedtoenhancetheproperty,

to provide shade, and to be relatively robust and maintenance free. Endemic species

are to be selected and planted in such locations as to not interfere with footings and

services.

Retainingwallstoallareaswheretheheightofbanksexceed450mm.

Cupboards

9. Standard cupboards should be:

Built-inwardrobes3000mmx600mminBedroom1and1800mmx600mmin

other bedrooms, to ceiling height with a shelf over the hanging space.

Kitchencupboards6000mmx600mmincludingspaceforadishwashernearthe

sink and a refrigerator. Plumbing and GPO for a dishwasher is required.

Benchestobe900mmhigh.

Kitchenbenchtopstobelaminatedwithtimberprotectivestripsontheexposededges.

Overheadkitchencupboards3000mmx450mmx300mm.

Microwaveovenalcoveprovideamicrowavealcoveinthekitchen.

Kitchenpantry1200mmx600mmtoceilingheightwithsuitableshelving.

Linencupboard1200mmx600mmtoceilingheightwithsuitableshelving.

Broomcupboard600mmx400mmtoceilingheightwithhighshelfforthestorage

of cleaning materials.

Doors and screens

10. The standards for doors and screens are:

Insectscreensincorporatedintosecurityscreens. Securityscreenstothemoveablepartofallwindowsinlivingareas.

SecuritydoorsaluminiumsecuritydoortoAustralianstandardwithinsectscreento

all external doors including sliding door (doors to be keyed alike).

Garagedoorstwosingletiltingdoors.

Externaldoorsexteriorqualitydoor35mmthickwithsolidcorefacedbothsides

with waterproof plywood.

Internaldoorsinternalqualitydoor35mmthickwithhoneycombpapercorefaced

with hardboard.

Wardrobedoorsslidingdoorsincludingonefull-lengthmirror.

SlidingdoorclearglasstomeetAustralianstandards.

Windowsslidinganodisedaluminiumwindowswithclearglass(exceptobscure

glass with fitted vent to bathrooms and toilets). Window locks or security screens may

be fitted where warranted.

Doorfurnitureexternaldoorstobefittedwithdeadlocksandkeyedalike.



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Lighting and electrical equipment

11. Electrical equipment and installations should consist of:

Stoveafreestandingfourplatestovewithsplashback,grill,fanforcedovenand

timer, or a hot plate and wall oven with similar features. Stove or hot plates to have a

range hood over.

Telephonepre-wiredtelephonecablingfromexternalconnectionpointtothe

kitchen and the main bedroom. TVantennaprovideanantennasuitableforclearreception,andoneoutletinthe

lounge.

Meterboxlocatedtotherequirementsofthelocalelectricitysupplyauthority,

circuit protection by miniature circuit breakers, minimum of four spare poles after

connection of all circuits, supply to be metered under domestic light, power and

controlled hot water tariffs. Earth leakage breakers are to be provided on all power

circuits.

BedroomseachtwodoubleGPOandalight.

Toiletlight.

BathroomdoubleGPO,lightandringtypeexhaustfan.

HallwaysingleGPOandlight.

LoungetwodoubleGPOandtwolights.

DiningdoubleGPOandalight.

KitchentwodoubleGPO,threesingleGPO(oneinthecupboardnearthesinkfor

a dishwasher, one in the microwave alcove and one for a range hood), a permanent

connection for the stove and range hood and a fluorescent light.

Verandah/Porchlight.Onefloodlightforthebackyard.

StorageareasingleGPOandlight.

LaundrytwodoubleGPOandlight.

CaraccommodationlightandsingleGPO(waterproofifnecessary).

PergoladoublefluorescentlightandwaterproofGPO.

Hotwatersystempermanentconnectionforhotwatersystem.

WaterpressurepumpweatherproofGPOadjacenttounit.

Baseoffrontstairslight.

Two-wayswitchinghallway,andfrontand/orinternalstairsintwostoreyhouses.

SmokeDetectorshardwiredwithabatterybackupcomplyingwithAS3876,with

location and number to satisfy Building Act requirements.

Water supply

12. The water supply should consist of:

Hotwatersystemmainspressurestoragetypehotwatersystemwitharatedhot

water delivery of 250 L installed in accordance with AS3500.

Watersoftenerwhereapplicable.

Borewatercoolerwhereapplicable.

Rainwatertanks9000Ltankonconcreteslabwhereapplicable.

Waterpressurepumpadomesticpressuresystemtoreticulaterainwatertothecold

outlet in the kitchen with a minimum output of approximately 30 L/min at 140 kPa.



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Fixtures and fttings

13. Fixtures and fittings should consist of:

Toiletceramicbowlwithplasticseatanddualflushcistern.

Vanityunit1200mmlongwithinsetceramichandbasinwiththreedrawersanda

cupboard under.

Bathroomcabinet900mmwideverticalshavingcabinetwithmirroreddoors,wall

mounted at a functional height above the vanity unit. Shower900mmx900mmminimumsize.

Showerscreensinglepanelslidingdoorwithobscuredglass.

Bathtubpressedsteelenamelledapproximately1520mmx760mm.

Laundrytubsinglestainlesssteeltubwithcupboardunder.

Kitchensinktwinbowlstainlesssteelsinkwithsingledrainer.

Bathroomhardwaretwodoubletowelrails,onehandtowelhookorring,shower

shelf, two bathroom hooks, toilet roll holder and soap holders to bath and shower.

Waterrestrictiondevicesconsiderationshouldbegiventofittingdevicestoshowers

and taps where appropriate.

Curtainrodsheavy-dutycurtainrodstoallwindowsandslidingdoors(excludingbathroom, laundry and toilet).

Blindspulldownblindstoallbedroomwindows.

Climate control

14. Climate control should consist of:

Eaves750mmeavestoatleastthewesternaspect.

SunScreenspre-paintedaluminiumlouvrebladesunscreenstowindowsonthe

western aspect, edge capped on lowset houses.

Insulationdoublesidedaluminiumfoilflameretardantwallinsulation,singlesided

50mmfibreglassblankettoroofand75mmfibreglassinsulationbattstowesternwall. Activecoolingmeasures:

Ceiling fans where applicable 900 mm fans to kitchen and 1200 mm fans to

bedrooms, lounge and dining. Where fitted, fans should be centrally mounted and

not interfere with lighting. Fan/lights should be used where ceiling heights allow.

OR

Reverse cycle (where appropriate) multi-split system air conditioning with

inverter.

OR

Evaporative cooling units where applicable in certain areas evaporative coolers

can be provided in lieu of split air conditioners.



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Annexure B to Scales and Standards of Housing

Standard for multiple tenancy dwellings

Functional areas

1. The unit/flat should provide: Twobedrooms

Bathroom

Toilet

Kitchen

Laundry

Lounge

Dining

Enclosedcaraccommodationfortwovehicles

Lockableweatherproofstoragearea

Entry(optional) Hallway(optional)

Twostairways

2. The minimum floor areas should be:

Enclosedareaofunit(excludingcaraccommodationandstoragearea)80m2

Bedrooms(excludingbuilt-in)12m2

Kitchen8m2

Bathroom5m2

Toilet1.5m2

Lounge20m2

Dining9m2

Laundry5m2

Storagearea9.5m2

Circulationspaceandaccesswaysasrequired

Ceilingheight2700mmwherefansareprovided

Floor fnishes

3. The floor finishes should be:

carpetofaqualitythatishardwearinganddoesnotshowmarkseasilyinbedrooms,

lounge rooms and hallways

sheetvinylinkitchensanddiningrooms

ceramictilesintoilets,bathrooms,laundriesandinentries

concrete,waterproofedfromrisingdamp,instorageareasandcaraccommodation

non-slipsurfacesonexposedsteptreads.

4. In hot, tropical or dusty areas, consideration may be given to alternate and appropriate

floor finishes other than carpet such as non-slip ceramic tiles, vinyl or polished boards.



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Painting

5. All surfaces to be given two finished coats of paint, with primer/sealer and undercoat as

required. Paint finishes should be:

Externalsurfacesglossfinish

Internalsurfaceslowglossfinish(exceptforarchitraves,skirtingsetc.whichshall

be gloss finish)

CompressedFCsheetingmattfinishacrylicresinabrasionresistantsurfacetoppingwith sealer coat.

Storage area

6. Individually secure storage areas should be provided for each occupant in a multi-tenancy

dwelling. These should be weather proof and rodent proof. Storage may be a freestanding

garden shed, an area within the car accommodation or under the house. If within the car

accommodation or under the house, suitable open shelving is to be provided.

Car accommodation

7. Enclosedandsecurecaraccommodationforonevehicleperbedroomisrequired.Iffree

standing there should be covered access provided to the dwelling.

Landscaping and outside works

8. Standard outside features of multiple-occupancy dwellings are:

Outdoorrecreationareainmulti-unitsituations,eachunit/flatistohaveaccesstoa

common recreation area (pergola type), paved or concreted, complete with solid roof.

Barbecueabrickorblockbarbecuewithplate,coverandchimneyaccessiblebyall

units in a multi-unit situation.

Fencing1200mmweldmeshorequivalent.

Gates1200mmweldmeshorequivalenttofrontandsidesasrequired(doublegates

to driveway).

Drivewaypavedorconcretedrivewaynotlessthan2.4mwidetorunfromthekerb

to the car accommodation. The concrete driveway is to be 100 mm thick reinforced

with contraction joints to suit.

Clotheshoistone4800mmdiameterrotaryclotheshoistorequivalentexternal

alternative per unit.

Pathwayspavedorconcretedpathtothefrontgate,clotheshoistandcar

accommodation if free standing.

LetterboxlockableAustraliaPostPreferredletterboxwithstreetnumberattached.

Gardentapstwogardentaps,oneaccessiblefromthefrontyardandonefromthe

back yard.

Topsoilandturfingfullturfingtothefrontofthepropertyand50percentturf

cover to the balance of the area. Turf is to be maintained for a period of six weeks

after practical completion.

Treesandshrubsanallocationoftreesandshrubsselectedtoenhancetheproperty,

to provide shade, and to be relatively robust and maintenance free. Endemic species

are to be selected and planted in such locations as to not interfere with footings and

services.

Retainingwallstoallareaswheretheheightofbanksexceed450mm.



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Cupboards

9. Standard cupboards should be:

Built-inwardrobes3000mmx600mmineachbedroomtoceilingheightwitha

shelf over the hanging space.

Kitchencupboards4000mmx600mmincludingspaceforadishwashernearthe

sink and a refrigerator. Plumbing and GPO for a dishwasher is required.

Benchestobe900mmhigh. Kitchenbenchtopstobelaminatedwithtimberprotectivestripsontheexposed

edges.

Overheadkitchencupboards1500mmx450mmx300mm.

Microwaveovenalcoveprovideamicrowaveovenalcoveinthekitchen.

Kitchenpantry1200mmx600mmtoceilingheightwithsuitableshelving.

Linencupboard1200mmx600mmtoceilingheightwithsuitableshelving.

Broomcupboard450mmx450mmtoceilingheightwithhighshelfforthestorage

of cleaning materials.

Doors and screens10. The standards for doors and screens are:

Insectscreensincorporatedintosecurityscreens.

Securityscreenstothemoveablepartofallwindowsinlivingareas.

SecuritydoorsaluminiumsecuritydoortoAustralianstandardwithinsectscreento

all external doors including sliding door (doors to be keyed alike).

Garagedoortwosingletiltingdoors.

Externaldoorsexteriorqualitydoor35mmthickwithsolidcorefacedbothsides

with waterproof plywood.

Internaldoorsinternalqualitydoor35mmthickwithhoneycombpapercorefaced

with hardboard. Wardrobedoorsslidingdoorsincludingonefull-lengthmirror.

SlidingdoorclearglasstomeetAustralianstandards.

Windowsslidinganodisedaluminiumwindowswithclearglass(exceptobscure

glass with fitted vent to bathrooms and toilets). Window locks or security screens may

be fitted where warranted.

Doorfurnitureexternaldoorstobefittedwithdeadlocksandkeyedalike.



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Lighting and electrical equipment

11. Electrical equipment and installations should consist of:

Stoveafreestandingfour-platestovewithsplashback,grill,fanforcedovenand

timer, or a hot plate and wall oven with similar features. Stove or hot plates to have a

range hood over.

Telephonesinglepre-wiredtelephonecablingfromexternalconnectionpoint.

TVantennaprovideanantennasuitableforclearreception,andoneoutletinthelounge.

Meterboxlocatedtotherequirementsofthelocalelectricitysupplyauthority,

circuit protection by miniature circuit breakers, minimum of four spare poles after

connection of all circuits, supply to be metered under domestic light, power and

controlled hot water tariffs. Earth leakage breakers are to be provided on all power

circuits. Each new dwelling unit should be separately metered where feasible.

BedroomseachtwodoubleGPOandalight.

Toiletlight.

BathroomdoubleGPO,lightandringtypeexhaustfan.

HallwaysingleGPOandlight.

LoungetwodoubleGPOandtwolights.

DiningdoubleGPOandalight.

KitchentwodoubleGPO,threesingleGPO(oneinthecupboardnearthesinkfor

a dishwasher, one in the microwave alcove and one for a range hood), a permanent

connection for the stove and range hood and a fluorescent light.

Verandah/Porchlight.Onefloodlightforthebackyard.

StorageareasingleGPOandlight.

LaundrytwodoubleGPOandlight.

CaraccommodationlightandsingleGPO(waterproofifnecessary).

PergoladoublefluorescentlightandwaterproofGPO.

Hotwatersystempermanentconnectionforhotwatersystem.

WaterpressurepumpweatherproofGPOadjacenttounit.

Baseoffrontstairslight.

Two-wayswitchinghallway,andfrontand/orinternalstairsintwostorey

dwellings.

SmokeDetectorshardwiredwithabatterybackupcomplyingwithAS3876,with

location and number to satisfy Building Act requirements.

Water supply

12. The water supply should consist of:

Hotwatersystemmainspressurestoragetypehotwatersystemwitharatedhot

water delivery of 160 L installed in accordance with AS3500.

Watersoftenerwhereapplicable.

Borewatercoolerwhereapplicable.

Rainwatertanks9000Ltankonconcreteslabwhereapplicable.

Waterpressurepumpadomesticpressuresystemtoreticulaterainwatertothecold

outlet in the kitchen with a minimum output of approximately 30 L/min at 140kPa.



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Fixtures and fttings

13. Fixtures and fittings should consist of:

Toiletceramicbowlwithplasticseatanddualflushcistern.

Vanityunit1200mmlongwithinsetceramichandbasinwiththreedrawersanda

cupboard under.

Bathroomcabinet900mmwideverticalshavingcabinetwithmirroreddoors,wall

mounted at a functional height above the vanity unit. Shower900mmx900mmminimumsize.

Showerscreensinglepanelslidingdoorwithobscuredglass.

Bathtubpressedsteelenamelled1524mmx762mmorsimilar.

Laundrytubsinglebowlstainlesssteeltubwithcupboardunder.

Kitchensinktwinbowlstainlesssteelsinkwithsingledrainer.

Bathroomhardwaretwodoubletowelrails,onehandtowelhookorring,shower

shelf, two bathroom hooks, toilet roll holder and soap holders to bath and shower.

Waterrestrictiondevicesconsiderationshouldbegiventofittingdevicestoshowers

and taps where appropriate.

Curtainrodsheavy-dutycurtainrodstoallwindowsandslidingdoors(excludingbathroom, laundry and toilet).

Curtainsheavyduty,machinewashable,backedcurtainstoallwindowsandsliding

doors (excluding bathroom, laundry and toilet).

Climate control

14. Climate control should consist of:

Eaves750mmeavestoatleastthewesternaspect.

SunScreenspre-paintedaluminiumlouvrebladesunscreenstowindowsonthe

western aspect, edge capped on lowset buildings.

Insulationdoublesidedaluminiumfoilflameretardantwallinsulation,singlesided50mmfibreglassblankettoroofand75mmfibreglassinsulationbattstowesternwall.

Activecoolingmeasures:

Ceiling fans where applicable 900 mm fans to kitchen and 1200 mm fans to

bedrooms, lounge and dining. Where fitted, fans should be centrally mounted and

not interfere with lighting. Fan/lights should be used where ceiling heights allow.

Reverse cycle (where appropriate) multi-split system air conditioning with

inverter.

OR

Evaporative cooling units where applicable in certain areas evaporative coolers

can be provided in lieu of refrigerated air conditioners.



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Annexure C to Scales and Standards of Housing

Standard for furniture

Entitlement

Basic furniture is normally provided for multi-tenancy units for the use of single orunaccompanied persons, and for houses in areas serviced by sea transport. The allocation and

specification is listed below:

Room Item House Unit Specification

Kitchen Refrigerator 1 1 KelvinatorFrostFreeN520FRHorsimilarforhouses.

KelvinatorFrostFreeN400Dorsimilarforunits.

Freezer 1 1 KelvinatorH210Dorsimilar.Onlysuppliedinareas

serviced by sea transport.

Dining

room

Table 1 1 Black powder coated metal frame with melamine top

1510 mm long x 900 mm wide.

Chairs 6 6 Black powder coated metal frame with upholstered seatand back frame. Seat 960 mm high x 410 mm deep.

See Upholstery for fabric specification.

Sideboard 1 1 Solid pine with clear lacquer finish with three drawers

and three doors, 1205 mm wide x 410 mm deep x

800 mm high.

Lounge

room

Lounge

suite

(3 piece)

1 1 Solid timber frame, solid timber legs, fully upholstered

with 19130 good grade foam. Combination may be

either a three-seater and two one-seaters or two two-

seaters and a one-seater to suit room.


Bookcase 1 1 Solid pine with clear lacquer finish and three shelves,930 mm wide x 230 mm deep x 1120 mm high.

Occasional

table

1 1 Solid pine with clear lacquer finish, 940 mm wide x

515 mm deep x 425 mm high.

Master

bedroom

Bed queen

size

1 - Solid pine with clear lacquer finish with slats.

Mattress

and cover

1 - Innerspring with advanced continuous coil support

system, Hotel Motel or similar. 100% cotton cover.

Side table 2 - Solid pine with clear lacquer finish,400 mm wide x 400 mm deep x 580 mm high.



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Room Item House Unit Specification

Other

bedrooms

Bed double

size

1 ea 1 ea Solid pine with clear lacquer finish with slats.

Mattressand cover

1 ea 1 ea Innerspring with advanced continuous coil supportsystem, Hotel Motel or similar. 100% cotton cover.

Side table 1 ea 1 ea Solid pine with clear lacquer finish,

400 mm wide x 400 mm deep x 580 mm high.

Desk 1 ea 1 ea Solid pine or craft wood with one drawer,

1205mmwidex580mmdeepx740mmhigh,without vinyl on top.

Chair 1 ea 1 ea Black powder coated metal frame with upholstered seat

andback,and780mmhighx500mmdeepseat.


Laundry Washingmachine

1 1 SimpsonS750Sorsimilarforhouses.Simpson36S550J or similar for units.

Vacuumcleaner

1 1 Panasonic MC3500M or similar.

Hose 1 1 18 m x 12 mm Nylex or similar outdoor quality hose

with nozzle and fittings.

Wheelie bin 1 1 As supplied by Local Government Authority.

Upholstery ea ea 47%Olefin,30%Acrylic,23%Cotton,TopekaBright

or similar. Sample to be approved.

Curtains ea ea 100% cotton Chintz thermal drape. Sample to be

approved.



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Section 4

Conditions of allocation of government employee housing from the

Department of Public Works

Introduction1. Government Employee Housing (GEH) of the Department of Public Works (DPW) provides

a range of accommodation for employees of the Queensland Government and their

families who are appointed or transferred from another location throughout the rural and

remote areas of the State.

2. This document sets out the terms and conditions that apply to the occupation of

Government employee housing controlled by GEH.

3. Departments will be charged market or economic rent6 for the provision of Government

employee housing. In centres where an identifiable private rental market exists, market

rent will be charged. In all other centres, economic rent will be charged. Where GEH pays

electricity charges and provides furniture for tenants, a surcharge on the market rentalbase will be applied.

4. GEH housing is to be administered having due regard for the requirements of the

Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.

5. The acceptance of, or continuity of occupation of a GEH dwelling signifies a departments

acceptance of the terms and conditions outlined in this document.

Availability of GEH housing

6. Housing owned by GEH will be made available in the following order of priority:

internalDPWagencies

non-ownerorminorhouseowningagencies(fewerthantennon-operational7 houses)

houseowningagencies

corporatisedagencies.

7. ThehousingvacancylistwillbecirculatedmonthlybyGEHandwillgenerallybe

available on a first in basis to bidding departments, subject to the priorities described

above. GEH reserves the right to reallocate housing to higher priority agencies should

circumstances require that action.

8. For the purposes of this document, the terms housing asset, house or dwelling means

any sole occupancy residence (house or unit), or any multi-tenancy unit (duplex/triplex),

or room leased by GEH.


providing and maintaining official dwellings. The formula amortises the cost of land acquisition,

construction and fit-out; and adds in averaged costs for administration, maintenance, rates and

electricity (where applicable).7 Operational housing is defined as dwellings that are attached/adjacent to operational business

premises that require a staffing presence after hours to ensure the delivery of Government

services. Examples of such accommodation are a police residence attached/adjacent to a police

station; a State Water Resources Project house located on a dam site; or ambulance officer

accommodation forming part of an ambulance station.



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Responsibilities of GEH

9. GEH agrees to:

providehousingtoadepartmentonanasavailablebasisonrequest

providetheadministrativenetworkthroughitsagentswhoareresponsiblefor:

compilation of State Tenancy Agreements

supply of keys

inspection of premises (random, occupying and vacating inspections)

advising tenants movements to a client department

advising a client department of the date the residence was allocated and rental

payable

attendtoreasonabletenantrequestsfor:

maintenance (through Q-Build) as appropriate

minor works (as funds permit)

liaisewiththeclientdepartmentonissuesaffectingindividualtenancies

administertheterminationoftheStateTenancyAgreementwhenappropriate.

Fees

10. The client department is liable for and is required to pay all costs and charges associated

with the provision of residential accommodation apart from normal owner costs such as

local Government rates and charges. Client departments will not be liable for electricity

charges for sole tenancies. Costs for electricity and furniture in single accommodation,

and furniture provided in sole tenancies in areas serviced by a seaport, are recovered as a

surcharge on the basic rent.

11. Full market rent or economic rent as appropriate will be charged at a rate as determined

from time to time by current housing policy and advised by GEH. From the financial year

2000/01, rents will primarily be calculated using data provided by independent valuers.

The Residential Tenancies Authority and/or local agents will also provide informationfrom which market and economic rents will be assessed. Rents will be determined by

31 March and advised to agencies by 31 May annually.

Term of allocation

12. The term will commence at the date of allocation to the client department regardless of

whether the accommodation is occupied or not, and will cease at the end of one months

notice in writing of surrender of the dwelling. Rents are due and payable up to the end of

the notice period, or until the keys are returned to the agent, whichever is the later. This

notice may be reduced to less than one month to reflect the date on which the dwelling is

re-allocated to another department, and rental is recoverable from that department.

13. The term will also be terminated when a dwelling is returned to the housing pool under

theconditionsstatedbelowinClauses14,15&16below.



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Retention policy for vacant housing assets

14. Departments may hold housing vacant for a period of up to four months without

reference to GEH. If a department wishes to hold a dwelling vacant for a longer period, it

must seek approval for such an extension from GEH citing:

thereasonfortherequestedextension

theexpecteddateofoccupancy

thenameorappointmentoftheprospectivetenant ifatenantcannotimmediatelyoccupytheresidence,theperiodforwhichthehouse

can be made available for short term rental, pending its requirement by the original

department.

15. If no submission is received by GEH within four months of the dwelling becoming

untenanted, the dwelling may, at GEH discretion, be returned to the leasing pool. GEH

will contact the department prior to withdrawal of the house to confirm that it is no

longer required.

16. The above provisions also apply to the allocation of single room and multi-tenancy

accommodation, so that service delivery requirements can be met.

Designated housing

17.Adepartmentthatdoesnotownitsownhousingassetsmayrequestthataparticular

dwelling allocated to it be established as a designated house. Such dwellings are

described as being those set aside for the use of key personnel only. Houses identified in

this category and allocated as such, will remain with the allocated department unless an

agreed appropriate fixed or periodic term tenancy can be arranged. The designated house

will be made available to the originating agency when required. Note that occupants of

designated housing must be eligible employees under the terms of paragraph 20.

Eligibility

18. The Scheme is intended to provide housing for employees of the Queensland Government

who are appointed or transferred from one location to another. As a general rule, it is

considered that a reasonable transfer cycle for such employees is no more that five years,

and after this time, the employee has elected by default to become a permanent resident

of a centre or location. Continuation of a tenancy past five years may be considered on

a case-by-case basis if the sponsoring department considers it essential to the delivery

of Government services, or on compassionate grounds. A Government employee may

occupy a GEH residence provided that he/she continues to meet all eligibility criteria as

outlined in Clause 20. No tenant will be permitted to occupy a GEH house except under

the sponsorship and support of his/her department. However, GEH is authorised to allow

an unsupported employee to occupy as a private tenant at full market rent, if no other

department requires the dwelling.

19. There is no entitlement to a Government house unless stipulated by an award condition.

20. To be eligible for GEH housing, employees must satisfy all of the following criteria:

beemployeesoftheQueenslandGovernment(thisreferstoalloccupations)

beappointedortransferredtothelocationfromanotherlocationtomeeta

Government service need

and

theemployeeand/orspouse/partnermustnotown,eitherdirectlyorindirectly,a

private dwelling within a 45 kilometre radius of the same location

OR beinanoccupationwhichstipulatestheprovisionofhousingunderawardconditions.



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21. If the tenant ceases to become eligible for occupancy of Government employee housing,

the tenancy may be terminated under the provisions of the Act.

22.SubjecttotheconditionsoutlinedinClauses14,15,16&17,andeligibilitycriteriain

Clause 20, residences may be retained by a client department whilst they are untenanted

and rent continues to be paid.

Multi-tenancy accommodation8

23. Multi-tenancy accommodation will normally be allocated to departments by single

bedrooms. In some circumstances, a complete unit may be allocated to a particular

department to meet specific requirements such as accommodating a couple or a small

family. Client departments will be responsible for the allocation of bedrooms within units

to their employees, and are required to:

notifytenantsinwritingwhetherawholeunitorsinglebedroomhasbeenallocated9,

and attach a copy of the letter to the Tenancy Agreement when forwarding it to the

GEH agent

inthecaseofsinglebedrooms,giveatleastseven(7)cleardayswrittennoticeto

existing tenants of the allocation of other rooms to new tenants.

Furniture

24. Basic furniture is normally provided for multi-tenancy units for the use of single or

unaccompanied persons, and for others in those areas serviced by sea. Unless otherwise

determined by GEH, provision of furniture in all other cases is the responsibility of the

client department or the individual tenant. Short-term re-designation of a dwelling from

sole to multi-tenancy may not result in the provision of furniture.

25. Where the allocation of a unit normally set up for single or unaccompanied personnel to

a couple or family is being considered for approval, the leasing department must agree

to meet the cost of relocating, storing and retrieving the furniture provided. Conversely,

where a request to utilise a house as singles accommodation is being considered, theleasing department must agree to meet the cost of provision of such furniture. GEH will

undertake to utilise any available furniture prior to the purchase of new items. The leasing

department also must agree to meet the costs of relocating or delivering such furniture.

Pets

26. Subject to local Government by-laws and the approval by GEH of an application in

writing from the tenant, pets may be kept on the premises of house dwellings. Fish tanks

containing aquatic animals may be kept internally but other pets are to be kept external

to the premises. In consideration of the quiet enjoyment of other tenants, pets are not

permitted in any multi-tenancy accommodation.

8 Multi-tenancy accommodation may include units, flats, duplexes, triplexes and houses that areused primarily for occupancy by single employees.

9 Complete units are not normally to be allocated to a single occupant. If special circumstances

warrant, agencies may make application to Manager GEH for approval.



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Pest control

27.NewpremiseswillbetreatedforpestsbyGEHwhentheycomeonline.GEHwilltreat

premises for pests just prior to reallocation to a department. The tenant is responsible

under the Tenancy Agreement to maintain pest control while in occupancy. While the

house was continuously allocated to a client department, and particularly during vacant

periods between tenants, that department is responsible for the management of pest

control.

Use of property for business purposes

28. Tenants are not permitted to conduct any private business operation from any GEH

property. This limitation does not prohibit the conduct of Government business at the

dwelling.

28A. Family Day Care is regulated by the Child Care Act 2002 and the Child Care Regulation

2003. Under this legislation, a person must not provide child care such as family day care

other than under the authority of a licence and in accordance with the terms of that licence.

The Director-General, Department of Communities, or approved delegate, issues licences.

In order to foster the needs of rural and remote communities and in support of theGovernments Priorities, the provision of licensed Family Day Care services from

Government employee housing may be exempted from the provisions of Paragraph 28,

provided the following conditions are met:

i. A tenant who proposes to undertake the provision of such family day care services

must obtain written approval from the owner of the residence.

ii. Such agreement must be included as a Special Term under the Residential Tenancies

Agreement signed under the provisions of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming

Accommodation Act 2008 .

iii. A tenant applicant proposing to provide family day care must be in possession of

documentation, certifying that they and the proposed residence have been assessed

and found suitable to be registered for the conduct of family day care, by a personor entity that has been granted a licence under the terms of the Child Care Act

2002 and the Child Care Regulation 2003. A copy of this documentation must be

forwarded with the application to the owner of the residence.

iv. The applicant must submit a copy of his/her public liability insurance policy to

the owner of the residence for the amount of ten million dollars ($10M) showing

the Queensland Government, its employees and agents, and the applicant as being

jointly insured. The owner reserves the right to determine the suitability of any

insurance cover proposed.

v. The applicant must abide by any conditions stipulated by the Child Care Act 2002

or the Child Care Regulation 2003.

vi. The applicant must acknowledge that he/she must comply (at his/her cost ifapplicable) with any local government requirements regarding the provision of

family day care services, for example provision of parking adjacent to the premises.

vii. The applicant must acknowledge that the State of Queensland accepts no liability

or responsibility (financial or otherwise) as to the suitability of, or for any

shortcomings in relation to the dwelling proposed to be used to provide family day

care services, and the applicant must also acknowledge that any modifications to the

dwelling proposed to be made must be approved by the owner of the residence, and

undertaken at the applicants cost.

viii. The applicant must acknowledge that the owner, at its absolute discretion, may

require the removal and make good at the applicants cost, any modification made

to the property.ix. The tenant must acknowledge that any approval given ceases with the expiration of

the tenancy, and is not transferable to any new tenant.



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Repairs on account of damage

29. Excepting fair wear and tear, any damage to the residence will be charged to the tenant.

In cases where the tenant cannot be located, or refuses to pay, a department is liable

to make good the damage, which it may elect to recover from its employee. If a client

department fails to have repairs effected within a reasonable time of being advised of the

requirement, GEH will arrange to carry out repairs and all costs will be charged to the

client department. An administrative surcharge may be applied where GEH is required toarrange repairs.

30. If a client department wishes to be relieved of the administration of such tasks, it may elect

to authorise GEH to effect any necessary rectification work and re-bill that department on

completion. (The administrative charge will still apply). Any department wishing to avail

itself of this service will be required to provide written authorisation to GEH.

Other costs

31. The client department is liable for and undertakes to pay any costs associated with

cleaning the residence and maintaining the yard and surrounds in a neat and tidy

condition while the accommodation is being held unoccupied or prior to the residence

being surrendered.

32. The client department agrees to reimburse GEH for any costs incurred for any

extraordinary administration associated with cleaning, mowing, yard cleaning, processing

invoices to client departments for excess water rates, and the like.

Indemnity

33. GEH is not liable for any loss, damage or injury to the agency, tenant, tenants

possessions or any person on the premises, unless caused by the negligence of GEH or its

agent or servant or resulting from a breach of GEH obligations under the Act.

Fringe Benefts Tax

34. The client department is responsible for any Fringe Benefits Tax liability associated with

the tenancy of a GEH dwelling.

Department owned houses

35. Client departments are required to utilise existing departmental accommodation before

applying for a GEH controlled housing asset. Similarly, if a residence belonging to a

client department becomes available in a centre, and that department is occupying a

GEH dwelling, that department should advise GEH who will determine if demand is such

that a relocation of the client departments tenant is appropriate. The costs of any such

relocation, should it be required, will be a matter for the client agency to resolve with its

employee.



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Advice to tenants

36. The client department is required to advise new tenants in writing of the following when

allocating a GEH controlled residence:

whenoccupying:

the location of the residence, location of key and agent

the requirement to complete a Tenancy Advice Notice (occupying)

the requirement to complete a furniture inventory (if applicable) and a TenancyAgreement

directions to forward documentation to GEH (through the GEH agent if available)

in the case of multi-tenancy units, advice in accordance with Clause 23

whenvacating:

to return key to agent

the requirement to complete a Tenancy Advice Notice (vacating)

in the case of multi-tenancy units, advice in accordance with Clause 23

to leave house/unit clean and tidy (a tenant who leaves a residence in an

unacceptable state may be billed for cleaning, and may be considered ineligible

for allocation of GEH housing in the future) to provide two weeks notice of intention to vacate so that a furniture inventory

audit (if applicable) and a Condition Report can be completed at vacation.

Termination of tenancies

37.GEHreservestherighttoterminatethetenancyofanyunsatisfactoryorineligibletenant

under the terms of the Act, by giving the minimum notice of two monthsNotice to

Leave Without Grounds. Departments will be given advance notice of any such intention

prior to action being taken. Client departments agree to support GEH when such action is

required, by directing the tenant to vacate as required under the Act.

Disputes

38. If a client department considers that is has been unfairly dealt with by GEH, it may

submit its position to the Director, Property Performance and Managment Group,

Queensland Accommodation Office, Department of Public Works for resolution. GEH

undertakes to promptly investigate any dispute or complaint relating to the provision of

housing services and respond to such representation as soon as practicable.

Contact person

39. Further information associated with the allocation and rental of Government employee

housing should be directed to the Senior Tenancy Manager, GEH, telephone(07)32245190.

40. Any grievance or complaint regarding housing services should be directed to the

Manager,GEH,telephone(07)32258807.



Policy and conduct


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Appendix A

Tenancy Advice Notice



Policy and conduct


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Appendix B

Form 18a General Tenancy Agreement Special Terms

A full review is currently underway, reference to Residential Tenancies Act 1994 should be

changed to Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. Note, all reference

to Form 18A General Tenancy Agreement Special Terms will be replaced by 18C State

Tenancy Agreement Special Terms (Part 3), which is currently under review.

Gehmf Policy Conduct

Documents

Transcript of Gehmf Policy Conduct