Advancing social value through the Housing and Construction Training Fund
The Queensland Procurement Policy (QPP) aims to deliver practical economic, environmental, and social impact through the way goods and services are purchased.
A collaboration between the Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET), QBuild, and the Department of Housing and Public Works (HPW) identified an opportunity to align with the policy and leverage procurement to achieve social value.
The initiative:
- enhanced the amenity of social housing properties
- created meaningful employment opportunities and skills development for disadvantaged Queenslanders
- contributed to the broader objectives of the policy.
Opportunity
HPW is responsible for maintaining social housing across the state, including looking after the amenity of social housing properties. During the procurement process to deliver on this responsibility, we identified an opportunity to enhance social value by creating job and training opportunities for unemployed Queenslanders from diverse and marginalised backgrounds.
Solution
To achieve these goals, HPW engaged Marist 180, an organisation funded by DTET that specialises in helping disadvantaged individuals find work and gain skills. The decision to engage Marist 180 aligned with DTET’s Housing and Construction Training Fund (HCTF) objectives and their proven track record in supporting disadvantaged individuals. This targeted approach ensured the procurement process directly supported people in need.
QBuild’s Construction Management team oversaw the purchase, delivery, and storage of materials, with HPW providing a dedicated budget for this purpose. This streamlined approach ensured resources were used efficiently, avoided waste, and kept the focus on achieving social value.
Outcome
This initiative has delivered significant social benefits with measurable outcomes:
- Employment opportunities: It created entry-level job opportunities for 56 unemployed Queenslanders from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them valuable experience in the housing and construction industry.
- Skills development: Participants received hands-on training and skills development, earning a Certificate I in Construction and a Working at heights ticket. As of February 2026, 51 participants had secured long-term employment in trades, related industries, and retail.
- Better communities: 7 social housing properties were improved, creating more welcoming and liveable spaces for residents. This helped foster a sense of pride and community.
- Environmental sustainability: QBuild ensured the efficient use of materials, reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.
This is a great example of the success of the DTET HCTF initiative in delivering on the objectives of the QPP. In prioritising social value through targeted procurement, the program has created jobs, enhanced social housing properties, and promoted sustainable practices. It’s a model for how other agencies can leverage procurement as a tool to achieve a positive impact.
More information
To find out how your next procurement activity can support people from disadvantaged or marginalised backgrounds, or about procurement from social enterprises, email socialprocurement@hpw.qld.gov.au.
You can also find social enterprises recognised by the Queensland Government through the following directories:
- Social Traders Social Enterprise Finder
- People and Planet First social enterprises directory via Queensland Social Enterprise Council directory.