By Sumeyya Ilanbey
Five modular homes, plus a support service, will be built in Bacchus Marsh to provide temporary accommodation for rough sleepers.
The state government has allocated
$5 million for the Towards Home program, for Norlane, Dandenong and Bacchus Marsh.
The money will go towards building 19 modular homes and multi-disciplinary support at each location.
People experiencing long-term homelessness who have a connection to the area will be given priority to the homes, designed as a medium-term living arrangement for a two-year period.
The state government hopes this program will address some of the immediate housing shortage concerns and support people who are experiencing long-term homelessness find a place to call home.
However, Salvation Army policy officer Kate Mecham said five temporary houses in Bacchus Marsh was not enough to deal with the homelessness crisis.
The Salvation Army is calling on the state government to commit to providing long-term social housing, reiterating its call for 3000 social houses to be built every year for the next 30 years.
“In terms of the benefits of modular homes, they’re fine, they work for some people,” Ms Mecham said.
“It’s not a bad initiative, but I just think, in the grand scheme of things and the current situation, it’s a drop in the bucket.”
Ms Mecham said modular homes suited individuals who needed their own space for a little while, while they tried finding permanent accommodation.
“It’s a fine initiative but not a long-term plan,” Ms Mecham said.
Housing Minister Martin Foley said the sites for the homes were being finalised.
“These new homes and the support network connected to them will give people sleeping rough a pathway to permanent and stable housing as quickly as possible,” Mr Foley said.
“We’re ensuring those at risk of, or experiencing homelessness, are supported in a targeted and holistic way.”
The temporary homes will involve outreach teams working with the support staff to seek out and engage people experiencing homelessness to help them find emergency accommodation and health services, and
offer them case management.
The temporary homes will be managed by the agencies selected through the tender process.
Tenders are open at www.tenders.vic.gov.au
