Strengthening Affordable Housing in Western Sydney
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Mark Butler today opened a new headquarters and training centre for Evolve Housing to help strengthen the delivery of affordable housing across Sydney.
Mr Butler was joined by Member for Parramatta Julie Owens to officially open the purpose-built centre in Parramatta and said by promoting individual empowerment and social networking, Evolve Housing was helping to create a strong community.
“The new fully accessible headquarters contain a Community Activity Centre, educational training rooms, free internet access, an outdoor barbecue area, and meeting rooms for resident activities and resident council meetings,” Mr Butler said.
“These facilities not only provide a place for residents to access support services and increase their skills and chances of employment, but it gives them the chance to connect with their community, build networks and develop friendships.”
Ms Owens said Evolve Housing provides much-needed affordable housing solutions and tenant support throughout Sydney, focusing on helping residents develop their own independence to get their lives back on track.
“Using a network of 44 support partners, Evolve Housing provides invaluable support services, including employment schemes, disability services, women’s domestic violence support, after-school tutoring, financial assistance and drug and alcohol counselling.”
Mr Butler said Evolve Housing was helping to increase housing supply in Sydney-one of the best ways to improve housing affordability.
“This Government knows that housing affordability is a concern for many families and we’re investing more than $20 billion to help people with home ownership and more affordable rental housing,” Mr Butler said.
Initiatives like the Social Housing Initiative, the Housing Affordability Fund, the Building Better Regional Cities program, and the National Rental Affordability Scheme are making a real difference on the ground for tens of thousands of people across western Sydney.”
“With more than 2,200 affordable homes across 133 Sydney suburbs, Evolve Housing is helping thousands of people who might otherwise struggle to find a home they can afford.”
“Under our National Rental Affordability Scheme, we are providing Evolve Housing with more than $33 million over 10 years for 441 homes, with 173 homes already completed.”
“And we are providing $5.7 million under our Supported Accommodation Innovation Fund to build housing specifically for people with disability in Parramatta and Ryde.”
“We believe all Australians deserve a safe, secure home, and we will continue to work hard to provide affordable housing for Australia’s most vulnerable people.”