- Published:
- Friday 20 May 2022
The Andrews Labor Government is tackling the growing number of women aged over 55 experiencing homelessness, with construction of more than 80 homes about to kick off in Victoria’s southwest
The new homes, across five sites, are part of the Labor Government’s landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build and are in partnership with Women’s Housing Limited.
The almost $24 million investment will deliver 83 new homes in Portland, Warrnambool and Hamilton, which all have a growing need for more social housing.
Domestic and family violence is one of the main reasons women become homeless in Australia, with 40 per cent of women nominating it as the main driver for seeking homelessness assistance.
The developments include six two-bedroom townhouses and two three-bedroom townhouses in Warrnambool, 19 two-bedroom villa units, five three-bedroom townhouses in Hamilton, and 39 two-bedroom villa units and 12 three-bedroom townhouses in Portland.
An additional 13 social housing units in Camperdown will also funded by the Labor Government in partnership with Women’s Housing Limited.
The $5.3 billion Big Housing Build – the largest ever investment in Victoria’s social housing system – will deliver more than 12,000 new social and affordable homes across the state, boosting social housing stocks by 10 per cent – and create 10,000 jobs a year.
This investment includes $1.25 billion in regional areas, ensuring the economic and social benefits are felt in communities across the state.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing Richard Wynne
“Everyone deserves the right to a roof over their head and there is a very real need in the southwest of Victoria for more housing for women.”
“These projects will provide homes for those who need it most, breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing the safety, security and dignity of a house.”
Quote attributable to Member for Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Building more social housing in Victoria’s southwest will service a critical need and help future generations to live a more stable life.”