- Published:
- Tuesday 6 September 2016
The Andrews Labor Government is boosting Victoria’s supply of social housing with almost $120 million additional investment for programs and projects announced today.
Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley joined Member for Essendon Danny Pearson to announce $30 million to kick-start the Flemington public housing estate’s redevelopment and a regeneration of Flemington’s 22 walk up buildings.
Consultations with the community, tenants, Mooney Valley Council and the VPTA will commence at the beginning of October to begin the process of establishing what the Flemington redevelopment should look like.
The Government will also invest:
- $23 million to increase the supply of short-term housing for homeless Victorians
- $60 million to increase the number of social housing properties on vacant or under-used land currently owned by the Director of Housing
- $5 million for the purchase and upgrade of the City Gate Apartments in St Kilda.
The Rapid Housing Assistance Fund will be expanded to assist people who are homeless, following a similar model to the recent Expression of Interest process for the registered housing sector to purchase and lease properties for women and children escaping family violence.
The $23 million is initially expected to purchase 60 homes and lease up to 70 properties.
The social housing pipeline program will kick off with Expressions of Interest in November, aiming to boost social housing through partnerships with the housing sector and private construction companies.
It will make an impact across regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne – including Braybrook, Clayton South, Eastwood, Dandenong North, Norlane, Morwell and Mildura where we have the greatest ability to expand social housing.
The Government will also release a housing affordability strategy later this year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“This is about increasing the supply of decent, affordable and stable accommodation for those who need it most.”
“We’re growing social housing with a much-needed funding boost and upgrading existing properties so they meet modern standards and expectations.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Essendon Danny Pearson
“Flemington is one of Melbourne’s oldest housing estates, and it needs a new lease of life”
“This is a once in a generation opportunity to improve the quality of life for the estate’s residents, providing them with the high quality, practical and modern housing they need.”