First Nations Families Face Eviction as Council Sells Homes 2026

First Nations families in Mount Isa are facing eviction as the local council auctions off homes to recover unpaid rates owed by a charity. The situation highlights a growing housing crisis affecting Indigenous communities in rural Australia. This article explores the details of the case, the impact on families, and potential solutions.

What Happened: Council Auctioning Homes Over Unpaid Rates

Mount Isa City Council has put 24 homes up for auction to recover nearly $1 million in unpaid rates from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation for Welfare Services (ATSICWS). The charity has not paid rates since 2021. The first 10 properties are scheduled for auction on Tuesday, with more to follow if the debt remains unpaid.

Residents, many of whom are traditional owners or long-term tenants, say they were not informed about the debt until five months ago. Leonie Reading, who has lived in her home for 11 years with three children, said she was only told in April that ATSICWS had failed to pay rates. She is terminally ill and fears being forced out with nowhere to go.

The Human Impact: Families at Risk of Homelessness

The eviction threat has plunged families into uncertainty and distress. Kerry Major, another resident, said she has not paid rent for the past two years because the charity told her the rent was being used to cover rates. Now she faces losing her home.

Reading has contacted local MPs, ministers, and housing authorities but says she has received no response. “We’re at the pointy end where if anyone is gonna do anything, they need to pull a rabbit out of their hats now,” she said.

Why the Council Is Selling Homes

Under Queensland law, councils can sell properties to recover unpaid rates. This is a last resort, but councils argue they must collect revenue to fund essential services. However, critics say the council should have engaged more with residents and the charity before resorting to auction.

Key Facts and Figures

Potential Solutions and Calls for Action

Community leaders and housing advocates are urging the council to pause the auction and work with the charity, residents, and state government to find a resolution. Options include negotiating a payment plan, transferring ownership to residents, or providing social housing alternatives.

“The council should be doing everything possible to avoid displacing vulnerable families,” said a spokesperson for the Queensland Council of Social Service. “Selling homes should be an absolute last resort.”

What Can Residents Do?

• Contact their local MP and the Housing Minister to voice concerns.
• Seek legal advice from community legal centres.
• Engage with the council to request a pause on auctions.
• Explore emergency housing options if facing immediate eviction.

FAQ

As the auction date approaches, families are left in limbo. The situation underscores the need for better communication between councils, charities, and residents, as well as stronger protections for vulnerable tenants. If you are affected, reach out to support services and advocate for your rights.

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