In a unique collaboration, 57 new affordable homes will be built on vacant VicRoads’ land in Melbourne’s inner west.
The partnership between the Andrews Labor Government, philanthropic donors Geoff and Brad Harris, and Launch Housing will add much needed housing stock to the Melbourne market.
Launch Housing will build 57 one-bedroom transportable homes on nine vacant sites on Ballarat Road in Footscray, allowing low-income adults and families access to reasonably priced rental properties.
VicRoads has acquired the vacant land over recent years for the potential future widening of Ballarat Road.
Current housing trends indicate that single adults are one of the main groups of people currently experiencing difficulty accessing and maintaining private rentals due to high costs.
Growing levels of homelessness in Victoria is a serious concern that requires a whole of community response and the developments will benefit a growing number of people who are at risk of homelessness due to the lack of affordable housing in Melbourne.
The lease of land, will be managed by Department of Health and Human Services, will be set at a period of five years with a 12 month notice to vacate should VicRoads require the land to be returned for infrastructure projects.
Launch Housing will guarantee the rehousing of tenants if they need to be relocated before the end of the five year lease.
Brad and Geoff Harris have provided a major philanthropic donation of $4 million to fund most of the building costs.
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Roads and Road Safety Philip Dalidakis
“This is a great partnership using vacant land set aside by VicRoads, to help those most in need in our community.”
“It’s these kind of partnerships that will support Victorians to get back on their feet.”
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Jenny Mikakos
“Every Victorian deserves to have a roof over their head.”
“Homelessness is a confronting and complex issue. We are currently experiencing unprecedented demand and a first of its kind project like this – will help adults and families have a place to call home.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020