The Andrews Labor Government will upgrade more than 200 public housing properties, creating up to 80 construction jobs in the Latrobe Valley.
Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley announced the $7.8 million investment today, which will deliver better quality homes for tenants in Churchill, Moe, Morwell, Newborough, Sale, Traralgon and Wurruk.
Each of the properties will be individually assessed to determine exactly what upgrades are required. Works may include kitchen and bathroom upgrades, new carpets and replacement of existing services such as water heaters.
In addition, the Clean Energy Sustainability Fund will look at ways of replacing inefficient electrical appliances with new, greener utilities to reduce bill stress for tenants.
This investment builds on the Labor Government’s $2.7 billion in support for social housing and homelessness to create better housing opportunities for Victorian’s in need.
The upgrades will start in July this year and are expected to be completed by 2020.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“This investment will create new jobs and better homes for people in the Valley.”
“The local community has had to live in properties built in the 60s that are, at best, run down. This investment will enable us to upgrade these properties and give these residents a modern home.”
“We’ve reversed the Liberals cuts to housing and are ensuring we have the most targeted support for people in need.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“These vital public housing upgrades will provide 224 homes from Moe to Sale which are more comfortable, energy efficient and modern, while also generating local jobs for Gippslanders.”
“This work will also restore dignity to many tenants who faced hardship and inconvenience when the Coalition slashed funding and left public housing across Gippsland to deteriorate.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020