Representatives from the community housing sector have today met for the first of a number of roundtables convened by Housing Minister John Carey, to discuss the future delivery of social housing in Western Australia.
It comes on the back of the McGowan Government's record $875 million injection towards social housing in the recent State Budget, with $2.1 billion being invested in the coming four years, including the delivering of around 3300 new social homes.
The roundtables are being used as an opportunity to shape the ongoing strategic partnership between the State Government and community housing organisations.
Speaking at the first roundtable session today, Minister Carey acknowledged the vital role the sector plays in WA and reiterated the State Government's commitment to implementing reforms that support providers to contribute to a resilient, diverse and effective social and affordable housing system.
Minister Carey discussed policy changes already implemented and underway within the Department of Communities, as well as priority reforms intended to support a more collaborative partnership between the State Government and community housing sector.
During the roundtable, Minister Carey announced the Government would be increasing its loan-to-value (LVR) cap for providers operating under a Community Housing Agreement with the Department of Communities. The cap will be increasing from 30 to 50 per cent.
The change means community housing providers can borrow substantially more money to purchase, lease or build new social and affordable housing for Western Australians in need.
A series of further meetings is planned to redefine and strengthen the State Government's relationship with the community housing sector.
Western Australia's community housing sector is made up of 266 organisations, managing 22 per cent of the state's social housing between them, with a value of almost $2.5 billion.
As stated by Housing Minister John Carey:
"I have been very clear that my aim as the Minister for Housing is to boost our stock of social housing as fast as we can, and the community housing sector is an important part of making that happen.
"Today's roundtable provided a great opportunity to discuss the relationship between the State Government and the community housing sector, and how we can foster a stronger strategic partnership into the future.
"Putting a roof over someone's head is a transformative, life-changing event that provides stability, safety, connection to community and is at the core of improving a person's overall wellbeing.
"The State Government is investing heavily in social housing, with $2.1 billion being invested over the next four years.
"I want to assure community housing providers that we are committed to supporting the sector and developing a shared vision for the future of Western Australia's social and affordable housing system.
"When we work together, we can be more efficient and effective, and deliver better outcomes for people in need."
