The Victorian Government is continuing to support vulnerable Victorians, including at-risk young people and people with disabilities, with the construction of social housing options in Gippsland.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne today visited the site of new disability housing units in Sale, which are set to be completed in early 2021 thanks to a $1.5 million grant from the Victorian Property Fund.
Once completed, the property will comprise of one five-bedroom group home and one two-bedroom independent living unit. A trained support provider will also live on-site to provide care and assistance when needed.
The new units, provided by Community Housing Victoria, will address the significant need for additional long-term supported accommodation for Victorians under 65 living with a disability or progressive illness, particularly as an alternative to aged care.
Young people at risk of homelessness due to overcrowding or conflict in their family home will have new options for safe and affordable housing in Gippsland, through the Kids Under Cover Studio Program – an early intervention approach to address youth homelessness.
A $2.3 million Victorian Property Fund grant has allowed for the five relocatable studios to be placed in the backyard of homes in Churchill, Drouin, Moe, Morwell, and Traralgon.
Studios will remain on the property for as long as they are needed by the family and can be dismantled and relocated to new families in need up to four times, allowing maximum usage of the units over their 20-year lifespan while also minimising vacancy rates.
The studios are designed to a 6-star energy standard to minimise utility bills for low income families. Environmentally sustainable features include double glazed windows, high quality insulation, LED lighting, energy efficient heating and cooling systems, with solar systems to be installed shortly.
The Victorian Property Fund supports development projects to increase the supply of long-term affordable housing for low income and disadvantaged Victorians.
As stated by Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne
“Having a safe and affordable place to live has never been more important, which is why we’re so proud to fund projects like these.”
“This isn’t just about housing – this is about improving the lives of younger Victorians and helping them to reach their full potential.”
“We’re supporting early intervention approaches to address youth homelessness across Gippsland and targeting resources where they’re most needed.”
