More homes mean more opportunity, and people experiencing homelessness in Melbourne’s CBD will be given the support they need to get back on their feet thanks to a brand new housing initiative supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Housing Harriet Shing today attended the official opening of Make Room on Little Bourke Street, a six-storey former commercial building that has been converted into homes for up to 50 people experiencing rough sleeping.
The $24.9 million redevelopment has been delivered in partnership with the Labor Government, City of Melbourne, Unison Housing and philanthropic donors with the Labor Government investing $9 million in capital funding as well as a further $5.2 million for on-site support and specialised tenancy management.
Make Room residents are expected to move into the studio apartments from January 2025 and can stay for up to 12 months.
The former office building has been converted into a safe space where people experiencing homelessness can access the support services they need, including long term case management, health services, alcohol and other drug and mental health experts.
Residents will have the opportunity to pursue gardening activities and develop their skills at the rooftop garden. Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Corporation will provide support services in line with culturally safe practices to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.
The Labor Government is investing nearly $197 million through the Victorian Budget 2024/25 into frontline homelessness services to help more people experiencing homelessness, as well as $67.6 million over four years for the Sustained Solutions for Housing First to End Rough Sleeping initiative.
As stated by Minister for Housing Harriet Shing
“We know that housing projects like Make Room provide life-changing outcomes for people experiencing homelessness. Providing a safe place to sleep, and access to tailored support services is the first step in making that a reality.”
“This new project is not just giving people a safe and connected place to call home, it’s providing the wrap-around services to address many of the root causes of homelessness.”
As stated by Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece
“Today is landmark day for everyone in our community – there’s no doubt in my mind that Make Room will change and save lives.”
“We have set a new standard for supportive transitional housing in Victoria – and have led by example to show how adaptive reuse of buildings can be used to deliver good – in cities across Australia and the world.”
