- Published:
- Saturday 18 December 2021
More Victorians who need it most will have a place to call home thanks to the Andrews Labor Governments’ investment in social and affordable housing in Geelong.
Minister for Housing Richard Wynne today visited Ormond Road in Geelong East to announce a $21.6 million upgrade of the public housing precinct as part of the Victorian Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build.
The Ormond Road upgrade is expected to provide 27 new social housing homes, increasing much needed housing options for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, women and children escaping family violence and Aboriginal Victorians.
The project – which will also create 194 local jobs - is also planned to provide 27 affordable homes, providing new options for residents of Geelong looking for affordable rental options.
The new homes will replace the 18 existing ageing social housing homes at the site, delivering much-needed growth of social and affordable housing in regional Victoria.
Consultation on the masterplan with current residents and other key stakeholders has started and construction is anticipated to be completed by 2024.
The work at Ormond Road adds to the more than 1,100 homes that are already under construction across the State as part of the Big Housing Build. More than $1 billion has been spent on construction and development since the program started, creating 2,500 jobs.
The $5.3 billion Big Housing Build – the largest single investment in social and affordable housing in Australia’s history – will deliver more than 12,000 new homes across Victoria. This historic investment will boost Victoria’s social housing supply by 10 per cent, while creating 10,000 jobs per year over the next four years.
The Big Housing Build is investing $1.25 billion in regional areas – ensuring the economic and social benefits of the program are felt in communities across the state. A minimum of $180 million will be invested in the Greater Geelong area.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing Richard Wynne
“The announcement of funding for the Ormond Road housing precinct is an important milestone in this incredible investment in new homes across the State. The development will provide more social and affordable housing for those who need it most, which is great news for the Geelong community.”
“Our Big Housing Build is providing a roof over their head for Victorians who need it and create thousands of local jobs, supporting our state’s economic recovery.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“This investment will make a real difference, providing people with the safety and security of social and affordable housing and helping build a strong local community.”