SOCIAL AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING BOOST IN GOULBURN

Goulburn locals struggling in the private market are preparing to move into new affordable homes, with the NSW Government announcing the completion of 20 social and affordable homes designed for over-55s.

Minister for Social Housing and Member for Goulburn Pru Goward visited the housing, which will provide accommodation for people over 55 who are currently on the social housing waiting list or in need of affordable housing.

“There is an increasing number of older people in our community who need access to housing and support services,” Ms Goward said.

“This development will provide affordable, accessible and modern homes for people over 55, tailored to suit their needs and lifestyle.

Liberal Candidate for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman welcomed the investment.
“The NSW Government’s commitment to deliver more housing means that people in Goulburn who are currently struggling to find a stable, affordable place to live will soon have a home of their own,” Ms Tuckerman said.

The 20 housing units are developed and operated by BaptistCare for the NSW Government’s $1bn Social and Affordable Housing Fund (SAHF).

Ms Goward said the SAHF proved what could be achieved when the Government worked with organisations like BaptistCare to deliver great outcomes for vulnerable people.

“By embracing a collaborative approach, the Government and BaptistCare are helping people to break the cycle of disadvantage and move towards greater independence,” Ms Goward said.

“Partnerships like these will ensure a pipeline of houses for vulnerable people for years to come.”

Mike Furner, BaptistCare’s General Manager of Housing and Retirement Living, said the Goulburn development is one of eight projects BaptistCare was providing with an overall of 500 SAHF dwellings across rural, regional and the Sydney metro area.

“Our strategy is to provide housing and support services that extend beyond the boundaries of just accommodation,” Mr Furner said.

Through the SAHF, tenants receive a service package that includes access to accommodation and are offered tailored access to supports like training, education opportunities and health services.

The SAHF is a key initiative of Future Directions for Social Housing in NSW, the NSW Government’s 10 year plan for social housing which is expected to deliver 23,000 social housing, 500 affordable housing and 40,000 private housing dwellings over 10 years.