People who were at risk of experiencing homelessness have started moving into a new social and affordable housing development in Werribee.
The Cottrell Street development is a partnership between Homes Victoria and Unison Community Housing.
The state government allocted $20 million towards the project, while Unison contributed $10 million.
The government said the development has boosted much-needed social and affordable housing in Melbourne’s west.
Seventy-four new homes have been built in the heart of Werribee for Victorians experiencing housing stress. A mix of one and two-bedroom units, the homes are close to services, shops and public transport.
The building and tenancies will be managed by Unison in partnership with Jesuit Social Services, Bolton Clarke’s Homeless Person’s Program, and in collaboration with the Health, Housing and Homelessness (H3) Alliance in Wyndham.
Economic benefits to the area also flowed from this project with the creation of almost 200 jobs.
Housing Minister Colin Brooks said the development was part of more than 23,000 new and upgraded social and affordable homes across Victoria under the government’s Building Works Stimulus program.
“Everyone deserves the safety and security of a roof over their head. This refurbishment will provide people at risk of or experiencing homelessness with the shelter, dignity and support when they need it most,” he said.
“It’s part of our record investment in social housing and homelessness services that offer a life-changing helping hand to those at risk.”
Treasurer and Werribee MP Tim Pallas welcomed the new social and affordable housing.
“This is a tremendous development for the community – providing quality housing close to services and transport for people who need it. We’ve consistently backed the west and we’ll continue to do so,” he said.
