A message from the Executive Director of the Queensland Government Accommodation Office (QGAO)

Since the launch of your office in July 2006, we have been working very hard to develop a new vision, and structure to reflect that vision. The new structure is in place and we are now well-positioned to meet the challenge of providing accommodation that meets government service delivery needs. Recruitment to fill the remaining positions is nearly finalised.

The biggest challenge at present is simply the demand for space. In the Brisbane CBD, for example, we have record low vacancy rates and average effective rents have increased by 77% in just two years. This is not limited to the CBD though, with many regional centres experiencing similar demands. As a result, workplace ratios have declined from an average of 19m² per person in 2001 to the new benchmark standard of 15m².

Amid this fast pace of growing demand for government office space, QGAO is committed to move with the times and meet your needs. As such, we are working on a master plan for government accommodation in the Brisbane region called Vision 2020 scheduled for release in April this year.

A pilot of agency accommodation planning is also underway, which we hope will demonstrate the many benefits of planning office accommodation in a way that allows agencies to better manage one of the biggest costs in their budget.

With water conservation a major issue across the state, QGAO is also working closely with the water smart buildings program to ensure our buildings not only meet, but exceed the current Level 4 water restrictions requirements in government buildings.

Our property managers are also working with agencies to ensure that the new Asbestos Management and Control Policy for Government Buildings is implemented and complied with.

Although these are challenging times, I am confident that the QGAO team are more than able to rise to the challenge.

karen lyon reid

executive director

Last updated 07 march 2007