Benjamin Millar
Moorabool landowners and developers are being urged to put forward any vacant land or developments that could be turned into social or affordable housing.
The state government is scouting for suitable sites to build new homes as part of the $5.3 billion Big Housing Build project, helping address a critical shortage of affordable housing in regional Victoria.
Recent rental market data shows housing affordability has fallen to its lowest level since data was first collected in 2000, pushing more people into financial stress and greater risk of becoming homeless.
The Big Housing Build will provide more than 12,000 new homes across the state, and creating 10,000 jobs a year and boosting social housing stocks by 10 per cent.
Buninyong MP Michaela Settle said a minimum investment of $20 million allocated for Moorabool will focus on purchasing new homes, house and land packages and developable land zoned for residential use.
“I’m calling on local landowners and developers to put their hand up to help make a contribution towards the future of our region, create local jobs and put a roof over heads of those in our community who need it most,” she said.
“This investment will build on recent announcements, which includes 89 new homes for Ballarat and 29 in Bacchus Marsh and Darley, with construction starting this year.”
Housing minister Richard Wynne said as Victoria continues to grow, so does demand for social and affordable housing.
“That’s why we’re delivering more housing for Victorians in need, as well as low and moderate income households, while creating thousands of jobs.”
Landowners and developers are encouraged to partner with community housing providers, local government and other organisations to submit proposals to Homes Victoria.
Strict guidelines for proposals will need to be addressed, including a site’s proximity to retail, schools and transport.
Submissions are due by 2pm Thursday, October 7 via tenders.vic.gov.au.
