Q&A with Glass House MP Andrew Powell 

Question: What are your key goals for the hinterland in 2025?

I’m keen to get cracking on delivering the commitments I made in the lead up to the last election.  At a broad level, that includes addressing our crime, health and cost of living crises.  It means getting serious about addressing our housing crisis.  Excitingly, we’ve already taken steps to reduce the cost of homes by introducing legislation to remove stamp duty for first home buyers.  And we need to build more social housing for those who desperately need it.  But I’m also keen to make progress on addressing the intersection of Maleny-Montville and Landsborough Maleny Road and doing our part to keep Maleny’s Dark Sky status.

Q: What do you see as the biggest challenges for the hinterland in coming years?

I think that it may become increasingly challenging to balance the increase in population with our cherished Hinterland way of life. There has been steadily increasing interest from the rest of the state – nay – country – in living here since the COVID pandemic, and it isn’t showing any sign of slowing down. Most of our infrastructure (roads, parking, public transport, footpaths etc.) was created with a smaller population in mind and hasn’t been upgraded to cope with our larger population density now. We need to ensure that infrastructure development keeps up with development approvals.  And does it whilst respecting our environment and lifestyle.

Q: What was the most important lesson you learned in 2024?

That I need two of me! I’m still learning how to most efficiently split my time between the Glass House electorate that I know and love, and my new Ministerial portfolio. I really do wish I could be everywhere at once.  There’s no doubt the Ministerial duties are large. But my priority will always be Glass House.

Q: What else would you like to say to people in the hinterland regarding your goals/vision? 

Everyone who lives here knows how incredible the Hinterland is. The area enables an unmatched work/life balance and the serenity is second to none, while still being close enough to the Coast for all essential services. I am committed to preserving our way of life while also ensuring we aren’t left behind in the midst of progress and development.