Bleijie tells Labor to ‘cry me a river’ over social housing sales
Sydney Morning Herald
by Matt DennienFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has dismissed criticism from the opposition Labor party over the resumption of social housing sales, telling them to "cry me a river." Speaking at the launch of a $500 million infrastructure fund aimed at accelerating housing developments, Bleijie defended the government's decision, highlighting that between 2015 and 2020, an average of 280 social homes were sold annually. He accused Labor of hypocrisy, noting that they paused such sales in 2022 amidst rising demand, contributing to the current housing affordability crisis.
Bleijie's remarks come as opposition leaders argue that selling public housing during a crisis is counterproductive. Housing prices in Brisbane have surged, with median house prices jumping 13.3% last year to $1.17 million, second only to Sydney. The government plans to sell land deemed unsuitable for social housing to boost broader housing supply, with proceeds reinvested into affordable housing projects. Bleijie emphasized that the LNP is constructing four times as many social and affordable homes as Labor did during its tenure, including 5900 units since taking power.
The debate over social housing sales underscores the ongoing challenges of housing affordability in Queensland. Critics argue that selling public assets exacerbates a supply shortage, while supporters maintain it is a necessary step to generate revenue and stimulate development. As housing prices continue to rise and demand outstrips supply, the political fallout over these policies will likely intensify, shaping the future of affordable housing in the region.
This issue resonates globally as nations grapple with housing crises, highlighting the delicate balance between fiscal needs and social responsibilities. Queensland's experience offers insights into how governments navigate competing priorities in times of economic strain, making it a critical topic for readers interested in
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/22/2026