New 80 unit housing development opens in Ringwood

Vulnerable people in Melbourne will benefit from a new social housing development built with $19.5 million from the Australian Government.

Minister for Social Housing and Homelessness Mark Arbib and Member for Deakin Mike Symon today opened Larissa Avenue, the new development in Ringwood.

Senator Arbib said Larissa Avenue was funded under the Australian Government’s $5.6 billion Social Housing Initiative, which assists low income Australians who are homeless or struggling in the private rental market.

“We are providing some of Victoria’s most vulnerable people, including families, with a place to call home,” Senator Arbib said.

“The Government’s Social Housing Initiative is the largest single investment in social housing ever undertaken by an Australian Government.

“Housing is a major challenge for Australia, and this Government is working hard to increase the supply of affordable housing for all those in need.”

Senator Arbib said the new development featured 80 units – 46 three bedroom units and 34 two bedroom units – and incorporated six-star energy rating and universal design principles.

“A unique feature of this development is the involvement of all residents in the care of the common lounge and extensive landscaped areas,” Senator Arbib said.

“This will help build a stronger sense of community and ensure that all residents are able to participate in and make a contribution to their broader home environment.

“I congratulate the community housing provider, Common Equity Housing and the private developer, Erdi Group, on proposing and delivering this impressive, well-designed housing project.”

Mr Symon said Larissa Avenue was part of 141 new Social Housing Initiative dwellings earmarked for construction across the Deakin electorate – 131 of these have been completed.

The Australian Government has also completed repairs and maintenance to 97 existing homes in need of work in Deakin.

Mr Symon welcomed the Australian Government’s investment in Ringwood which would help keep vulnerable people connected with support and services available in the community.

“Larissa Avenue is an important development for this active, growing community,” Mr Symon said.

“It will help improve the lives of people in Ringwood who may well be doing it tough. But it is much more than just a roof over their heads.

“Finding a safe and affordable place to live not only gives people peace of mind, it is an important part of staying connected with your local community.

“Larissa Avenue has also helped to create jobs in the Ringwood area boosting the local economy. Across Australia 15,000 jobs have been supported under the Social Housing Initiative nationwide.”