First Nations families face eviction as council auctions homes over charity's unpaid rates

Key facts

• Mount Isa City Council is auctioning 24 homes previously owned by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Welfare Services (ATSICWS).
• The homes are being sold to recover nearly $1 million in unpaid rates accumulated over five years.
• First Nations families residing in these homes face potential eviction and homelessness.
• Residents claim they were only informed about the unpaid rates in April.
• The first 10 properties are scheduled for auction on Tuesday.
• Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, confirmed the federal government could not secure a resolution to halt the auctions.

Mount Isa City Council in rural Queensland is proceeding with the auction of 24 homes owned by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Welfare Services (ATSICWS) to recover nearly $1 million in unpaid rates. The debt has accumulated over five years, with residents claiming they were only informed of the situation five months ago. The first 10 properties are scheduled for auction on Tuesday, potentially leaving First Nations families with nowhere to go.

Residents like Leonie Reading, who has lived in her home for 11 years, and Kerry Major, who has faced issues with basic services like hot water and a stove for two and a half years, expressed dire concerns about their future. Major highlighted that the houses are in disrepair, with one needing demolition, and securing private rentals in Mount Isa is extremely difficult.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, stated that despite efforts, the Commonwealth could not find a resolution to halt the auctions. Her office noted her concern for the welfare of the affected families. Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe criticized the federal government for not intervening, suggesting $600,000 could have secured the homes for the families. Queensland's Department of Housing and Public Works indicated they had not been approached by the council or ATSICWS to acquire the properties but are working with local providers to support affected tenants.