104 New Social Housing Units for Dalyellup

The Federal Labor Government has responded to the shortage in affordable housing for older community members in the Bunbury region by fully funding a new $22.7 million social housing development in Dalyellup.

The Minister for Social Housing and Homelessness Mark Arbib and Senator for Western Australia Louise Pratt today welcomed the opening of the Bethanie Housing Facility in Kambany Approach, Dalyellup funded under the Social Housing Initiative.

“An affordable and safe place to live in the local area not only gives you peace of mind, it is also an important part of staying connected with your community,” Senator Pratt said.

“This new development offers older Australians in our local community the security of having a stable place to live.

“Western Australia has received an enormous boost to social housing with an investment by the Federal Government of $590 million through the Social Housing Initiative. 

“This is of particular importance in a state where so many older people on fixed incomes struggle to compete in the private rental market to get a roof over their head.”

Senator Pratt said in Western Australia the Government delivered more than 1,670 of the 2,080 new homes committed under the Social Housing Initiative and repairs and maintenance to over 10,400 homes across the State.

“This is an unprecedented level of effort to support affordable housing in WA,” Senator Pratt said.

“These quality and newly completed 104 units consist of 24 two-bedroom and 80 one-bedroom apartments all of which incorporate six star energy ratings demonstrating sustainable technologies and sound environmental principles.

“All of the units incorporate universal design principles and all apartments can easily be modified for older tenants and people with disability.

“I would like to thank Bethanie Housing for its involvement and management of the facility.

“As one of the largest aged care providers in Western Australia, Bethanie Housing is well placed to understand the needs of older people in Western Australia.”

Federal Minister for Housing and Homelessness Mark Arbib said the $5.6 billion Social Housing Initiative was the single largest investment in social housing ever undertaken by an Australian Government.

“The Social Housing Initiative, delivered under the Government’s stimulus package, is designed to assist low income Australians who are homeless or struggling in the private rental market,” Senator Arbib said.

“Through the Initiative, the Australian Government has supported more than 15,000 jobs nationally, and helped shield Australia from the recession that hit most other economies.

“Most importantly, these wonderful new homes will give older Australians a place to call home.”