Stimulus supports local jobs and delivers affordable housing in Bundaberg

Minister for Housing Tanya Plibersek today inspected a 10-unit development that will provide new affordable homes in Bundaberg.

The project has been developed by Dream Seeds Pty Ltd, and comprises ten one bedroom apartments.

The new homes will be complete in November 2010 and include electric hot water systems, draught-proof windows and doors, shading and energy-efficient lighting.

Four of the apartments are suitable for people with mobility difficulties, and one has full wheelchair access.

A local business is doing the building work, and 12 full-time tradespeople have been employed on site.

Ms Plibersek said that around Australia, Federal Government programs were increasing the stock of affordable housing by 80,000 homes by 2012.

“The $5.6 billion social housing initiative will deliver over 19,300 new homes, repair more than 70,000 others and support more than 15,000 jobs across the country.

“The program is delivering great value for money with an average per unit cost across the nation of $270,000 – well below the $300,000 in the program guidelines.

“The new housing is also contributes to the Government’s strategy to halve homelessness in Australia by 2020.

“I am delighted that a local building company is doing the work on this project, and that 12 local tradespeople are employed on site.

“This shows how important the Stimulus Plan has been in supporting local jobs through the global recession,” Ms Plibersek said.

Once completed, the complex will be managed by Regional Housing Limited. Regional Housing Limited Chief Executive Jackie Richards said the increase in community housing in Bundaberg will help place more people on low incomes into good quality long term housing.

“These properties will help give our tenants the chance to avoid potential homelessness and build a stable lifestyle within their community,” Ms Richards said.

In total the Federal Government is delivering 115 new affordable rental homes for low and modest income earners in the Bundaberg area.

Of these homes, 66 are under construction, with a further 17 already complete.