The Victorian Government has pledged to deliver dozens of new homes in Carlton as part of its landmark Big Housing Build.
Minister for Housing, Richard Wynne, today unveiled a new $40 million development in Carlton North that he said will provide safe, securing housing for people aged over 50 – with at least half of the new homes to go to women.
Women over 55 are the fastest growing group of people experiencing homelessness in Australia for a range of reasons – including family violence, being out of the workforce to raise families and low superannuation.
More than 10,000 women aged over 50 were supported by Victorian Specialist Homelessness Services last year, with 40% of these women citing domestic and family violence as their main reason for seeking help.
“Everyone deserves a roof over their head and the security of a place to call home – but for thousands of people, safe and affordable housing is still out of reach,” said Minister Wynne.
“We’re changing that with Australia’s biggest ever investment in public and community housing through our Big Housing Build – delivering new homes and thousands of jobs for Victorians at the same time.
“Low superannuation balances, disrupted careers and the gender pay gap all contribute to women over 55 being the fastest growing group of people experiencing homelessness – this investment will break that cycle by providing the safety, security and dignity of a home.”
He said the 62-unit apartment building is close to public transport, shops, health, education, and other support services and will help break the cycle of homelessness.
Wintringham, a specialist housing and support agency with a focus on older Victorians, will manage the site and planning is underway so tenants can start moving in the new year.
Other services such as support workers, community health and allied health services will support the new tenants at the site, which will also include a 24-hour concierge and on-site security, the Minister said.
