Youth experiencing homelessness in Bendigo now have access to more accommodation and education services with the official opening of the Sidney Myer Haven Education Centre.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz was joined today by Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan to officially open the first centre of its kind in Australia.
The centre includes a new complex of 23 housing units built thanks to a $4 million dollar investment from the Victorian Government through the Victorian Property Fund.
The 19 two-bedroom units and four one-bedroom units will provide stable accommodation to help those in the education program develop new skills to break the cycle of long-term homelessness.
The project was supported by Loddon Mallee Housing Services, Haven, which has been providing services to people experiencing homelessness and the disadvantaged since 1978.
The ongoing education service will be supported by the Sidney Myer Fund and the Myer Foundation.
The Victorian Property Fund invests in quality, affordable accommodation and is maintained by licensing fees and fines paid by estate agents and conveyancers. It is used to finance community-led property projects across Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz
“The units in the Sidney Myer Haven Education Centre are a great example of the Victorian Property Fund supporting housing for Victorians in need.”
“The Sidney Myer Haven Education Centre will provide a safe and stable environment for residents to learn new skills that will increase their long term employment prospects.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“This combination of affordable housing and educational programs will work to break the cycle of long term homelessness in Bendigo.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020