THE Victorian government is contributing $6 million towards 26 new community housing units in St Kilda, as homelessness balloons across the state.
Construction is now underway on the new safe and energy efficient self-contained units being delivered in partnership with Port Phillip City Council, St Kilda Community Housing and the Allan government.
In addition to the $6 million investment, the state government will also cover operating costs for four years.
While the Port Phillip City Council will provide $4.75 million and land towards the project, with St Kilda Community Housing to provide access to wrap around services.
“We are proud to deliver both the construction side and the future tenancy management and support of this project. Through this partnership, our core purpose of housing more people in better quality homes will be realised,” said Liz Johnstone, chair at St Kilda Community Housing.
“I’m so excited to see construction beginning for this project, right here in St Kilda. Safe and secure housing is the first step to help those experiencing homelessness to get back on their feet,” said John Berger, member for Southern Metropolitan region.
The project will include space for support services and concierge and will operate using an evidence-based Housing First approach that advocates for early intervention and is designed to address the multiple and complex needs of people facing homelessness.
“This new project is not just giving people a safe and connected place to call home, it’s providing the wrap-around services that address many of the root causes of homelessness,” said Harriet Shing, minister for housing.
The project is being funded through the $528 million Building Works housing stimulus package to upgrade and maintain more than 23,000 social housing units across Victoria and build 168 new social housing homes.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 has delivered $134 million for housing and homelessness support across Victoria, including $67.6 million for Housing First responses and supports.
However, out of every state and territory in the country, Victoria holds the lowest share of social housing, with public and community housing making up just 2.8% of Victorian households.
And Victoria recording a 5.3% increase in the use of homelessness services between December and March, according to Homelessness Australia.
