The Andrews Labor Government is providing Port Phillip Housing Association with $5 million for the purchase and upgrade of the City Gate Apartments in St Kilda.
Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley said the Government was supporting the association’s bid because closure of the complex would exacerbate pressure on low cost accommodation options, and may leave more homeless families without a safe place to stay.
The funding is provided as part of the Government’s response to homelessness and family violence and will see 50 purpose built units at the upgraded facility. Residents will also be linked to the support services they need to end their homelessness.
Port Phillip Housing Association has contributed $5.1 million for the acquisition and will partner with Launch Housing for the provision of resident support services. Launch currently runs education and pathways programs and in the last 12 months has helped more than 100 families and 225 children.
This investment is additional to the Labor Government’s $152 million housing blitz following the Royal Commission into Family Violence. The response enables a much needed expansion of the services required to provide women in need with safe, welcoming accommodation and support.
Demand for low cost accommodation in the inner and middle suburbs has continued to rise, as options have dwindled following closure of 11 rooming houses and caravan parks in the inner areas since 2011.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“This investment will ensure that the St Kilda community still has low cost accommodation options due to the decline of affordable housing for people who need a roof over their head and support to get back on their feet"
“We will continue to work to implement both short and long term solutions when it comes to dealing with homelessness.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020