QLD Hoarding and Squalor Strategy Group (QLD HandS)

Hoarding and squalor are complex, intersecting issues that affect an estimated 3–5% of people in Queensland. Responding effectively requires collaboration across housing, health, community services, and government.

The QLD Hoarding and Squalor Strategy Group (QLD HandS) is a statewide community of practice that brings together people with lived experience, frontline practitioners, managers, specialist services, and system leaders to strengthen responses to hoarding and squalor.

Facilitated by Q Shelter, the group provides a space to connect, share knowledge, identify system gaps, and build collective understanding of what works in Queensland.

Purpose of the Group

QLD HandS exists to improve the quality of life for people impacted by hoarding and squalor by:

· Supporting people to remain safely housed and well

· Building shared understanding across sectors

· Strengthening coordinated, informed, and compassionate responses

· Ensuring lived experience informs policy, practice, and advocacy

Meeting Format

Bi-monthly meetings on the fourth Wednesday

Online via Microsoft Teams

Meeting Format

· Facilitated by Q Shelter

· Agendas shared in advance, with summary notes provided

· Sub-groups may be formed to progress specific priorities and report back

Meeting dates for 2026:

March 25th

May 27th

July 29th

September 30th

November 25th

Delivery: All meetings are held via Microsoft Teams from 1-3pm on these dates

What We Do

As a group, QLD HandS:

· Connects key stakeholders and collaborators across Queensland, including people with lived experience

· Shares information, insights, and evidence to build a collective knowledge base

· Identifies service system gaps, emerging trends, and resource needs

· Supports advocacy for improved funding, policy, and service responses

· Builds workforce capability and promotes effective, ethical practice

· Strengthens public and sector understanding of hoarding and squalor

Who Should Attend

This group is relevant to professionals and stakeholders working in or alongside:

· People with lived experience and expertise

· Housing and homelessness services

· Community and social services

· Mental health and disability services

· Local and state government

· Tenancy sustainment programs

· Emergency services

· Specialist hoarding and squalor services

· Cleaning and environmental health services

· NDIS and aged care

· Peak bodies and advocacy organisations

Please contact the Q Shelter Events Team on events@qshelter.asn.au if you are experiencing any barriers for registering.