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More Housing For Family Violence Victims

01 November 2016

Women and children fleeing family violence will have a safe place to call home with 20 affordable units being built in Newport, funded by the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz was joined today by Members for Western Metropolitan Cesar Melhem and Khalil Eideh to turn the first sod marking the start of construction on the apartments.

Nine one-bedroom and eleven two-bedroom homes will provide low cost housing for women aged over 55 and give tenants easy access to public transport, schools, shops, healthcare providers and job opportunities.

The project is funded by a $5.5 million grant from the Victorian Property Fund (Property Fund) for Women’s Housing Limited to build the new homes.

All tenants for this new development will come from the public housing waiting list and rent will be set at a maximum of 75 per cent of market price, or 30 per cent of a household’s income.

The Property Fund invests in quality, affordable accommodation and is maintained by licensing fees and fines paid by estate agents and conveyancers, and is used to finance community-led property projects across Victoria.

Quote attributable to Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz

“We’re working to make a significant difference in the lives of women fleeing family violence by providing affordable, long term housing in an area close to the services and job opportunities they need.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Metropolitan Cesar Melhem

“It’s our priority to increase affordable housing in areas of high demand and close to community amenities, and that’s exactly what we’re doing here in Newport.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Metropolitan Khalil Eideh

“This housing project will go a long way to support residents fleeing family violence to move on with their lives.”

Quote attributable to Member for Williamstown Wade Noonan

"Family violence is the number one law and order issue in our community, that's why investments such as these are important."

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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