New Social Housing Facility Opens in Bonython

People at risk of homelessness in Canberra will benefit from a new social housing development built with $7.2 million funding from the Australian Government. 

Federal Member for Canberra Gai Brodtmann today attended the opening of the project at Bonython.

Ms Brodtmann said the new development would allow older people to find a stable place to live and stay connected with the Tuggeranong community.

“This facility consists of 37 two-bedroom units and incorporates six-star energy rating and universal design principles,” Ms Brodtmann said.

“This is the third Supportive Housing development site for older tenants in the Tuggeranong Valley funded under the Social Housing Initiative.  The other two facilities are located in Kambah and at Conder.

“I would like to thank Housing ACT and the ACT Government for their involvement and management of the facility.”

The project was funded from the Australian Government’s Social Housing Initiative, with the ACT providing the land for the development.

Federal Minister for Social 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.

“Under the Initiative, more than 19,300 homes are being constructed across the nation and more than 12,400 have already been completed.

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

“Delivering more housing for older Australians that is better suited to their needs is absolutely crucial and I am proud that the Australian Government has been able to work with the ACT Government to deliver for older Australians in need of housing.”