Construction has started on a new project in St Kilda that will ensure more people experiencing homelessness will get the support they need while getting back on their feet.
The Allan Labor Government is partnering with Port Phillip City Council and St Kilda Community Housing to build 26 brand-new, safe and energy efficient self-contained units with spaces for support services and concierge.
The Victorian Labor Government is contributing more than $6 million towards the new housing in St Kilda and will also cover operating costs for four years. Port Phillip City Council is providing $4.75 million and land towards the project. St Kilda Community Housing will manage this property and provide access to wrap-around services.
The new project will operate using the evidence-based Housing First approach that advocates for early intervention and is designed to address the multiple and complex needs of people who have been sleeping rough. This approach prioritises safe and permanent housing, and provides support workers to address complex needs.
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 Allan Labor Government is investing record amounts in housing and homelessness programs across the state to house more people, more quickly.
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 that will deliver much-needed permanent supportive housing responses to people sleeping rough.
As stated by Minister for Housing Harriet Shing
"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."
As stated by Member for Southern Metropolitan Region John Berger
"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."
As stated by City of Port Phillip Mayor Heather Cunsolo
"City of Port Phillip is proud to be providing funding and surplus land towards the Wellington Street project. This continues our longstanding commitment to changing lives by providing a safe place to call home for those who need it most."
As stated by St Kilda Community Housing Chair Liz Johnstone
"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."
