The Allan Labor Government is unlocking more homes for woman and children at risk of homelessness.
Minister for Housing and Building Harriet Shing today marked the 'topping out' of a new building on Essex Street, Prahran - celebrating the completion of the main structure before families move in next year.
Once finished, the projects will deliver 155 new, modern and energy efficient homes through a partnership between Homes Victoria and not-for-profit group Building Communities. The homes are replacing 63 outdated homes and the site has a 37 per cent increase in social housing.
Essex Street will include 86 social homes dedicated for women and children experiencing financial instability, homelessness or escaping family violence, managed by Women's Property Initiative. The remainder of the homes are a mix of affordable and market housing, managed by Community Housing Limited.
The site at Essex Street will have a café, garden and picnic area, and is close to trams along both Malvern Road and High Street, as well as schools, jobs and services.
The project is being delivered under the innovative Ground Lease Model, with Homes Victoria leasing the land to Building Communities to build, manage and maintain the homes for 40 years while the land remains in public ownership.
It's just one part of the Labor Government's landmark $6.3 billion investment in social and affordable housing, delivering more than 13,300 homes across Victoria - with more than 11,100 homes already underway or complete, and more than 6,300 families have moved or are getting ready to move into their new homes.
More than $430 million has been invested in the City of Stonnington to deliver more than 1,100 new homes under the Big Housing Build and other programs.
As stated by Minister for Housing and Building Harriet Shing
"Everyone deserves the dignity and safety of a home that meets their needs and connects them to community - that's what this project will deliver."
"Women are the fastest growing group of people at risk of homelessness, and we're changing that by building more homes for women and children."
As stated by Member for Southern Metropolitan Region Ryan Batchelor
"We are delivering new, modern and accessible homes right in the heart of Prahran, helping local families with a safe place to call home."
