- The $76.7 million project will see the redevelopment of 69 self-contained independent units.
- The project is divided into two stages, with the second stage expected to be complete in October 2024.
- This is the second of four projects in Melbourne to deliver social housing for older Victorians.
A partnership between the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC), Homes Victoria and community housing provider HousingFirst opened the first of three residential buildings for older residents in Brighton East.
Federal Minister for Housing Julie Collins says, “Boosting the supply of social housing in Melbourne and across the country was a priority for the Federal government.
“The Government is delivering housing for Australians who need it.”
This is the second of four projects in Melbourne to be completed in collaboration with the Victorian Government and HousingFirst.
The details
The $76.7 million project will see the redevelopment of 69 self-contained independent units to allow for 152 independent living apartments and includes flexible, communal areas and 52 car parking spaces.
It will be offered as long-term social housing for the 50 current residents with the balance reserved for over 55 year olds on the Victorian Housing Register.
The project is being developed in two stages; tenants have moved into Stage One of the project, known as Building A, which comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments. Stage Two of the project comprises 116 units, split between 114 one-bedroom apartments and 2 two-bedroom apartments across two buildings.
Construction of Stage Two commenced in June this year, with completion expected in October 2024.
Housing First CEO Haleh Homaei says, “A true indicator of a healthy society is how it cares for its older generations.
“It is wonderful to be able to ensure that more older people in this area can remain living locally as they age and get the services and support they need at home, without having to move away from their neighbourhood and support networks.”
Funding
The Brighton East project is primarily funded through the Victorian Government’s Big Housing Build 2021 Rapid Rebound.
As part of the Victorian State Budget in 2020, the package was intended to deliver a historic $5.3 billion investment and more than 12,000 new homes throughout metro and regional Victoria.
However, NHFIC has also contributed $5 million in grants and loans for infrastructure works through the National Housing Infrastructure Facility
NHFIC CEO Nathan Dal Bon says, “Over 55s have played a critical role in building strong and healthy communities and represent one in seven people experiencing homelessness.
“Through NHFIC’s concessional finance and grant funding we have helped unlock critical new housing.”
Collins added that the government is getting on with the job of adding to supply.
“And that’s what our Housing Australia Future Fund would do, with its guaranteed minimum of $500 million each and every year for social and affordable housing.”
