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The Reference Group is a key action from the Greater Shepparton Affordable Housing Strategy Houses for People 2020 which aims to broaden the understanding of Affordable Housing needs across the region and to strengthen local responsiveness.

The Reference Group advises Council on matters and issues related to Affordable Housing, including assisting in identifying suitable sites, conducting relevant research, responding to the needs of vulnerable groups, promoting understanding and awareness of housing issues, and advocating and sourcing external funding.

The Reference Group has representatives from Council and several member organisations involved in delivering Affordable Housing, or representing those in need of housing. It also has up to four community representative positions for members of the community who are unaffiliated with these member organisations. The community representative positions are voting members of the group and are generally appointed for a two-year term.

At Tuesday’s Council Meeting, Tania Tonks, Terry Court, Kathleen Mills and Denise Moseley were appointed to the community representative positions for a two-year term until 20 May 2025, with Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulating them on their appointment.

“We are pleased to have community representatives with such strong skills and knowledge in the community and we know they will have a positive impact on the Reference Group. We also acknowledge and thank outgoing community representative Bruce Mactier for his contribution to the committee,” he said.

“It was great to see a significant interest from the community in Affordable Housing, with 10 applications to fill four community positions on the Reference Group.

“The Affordable Housing Reference Group is an important way to raise awareness of housing affordability issues, as well as promoting community participation in Affordable Housing issues within the region.”