Stimulus delivers new affordable homes for seniors in Rosemeadow

Federal Minister for Housing Tanya Plibersek and NSW Minister for Housing Frank Terenzini today inspected a 57 unit development that will provide new affordable homes for seniors at Rosemeadow.

The 29 one-bedroom and 28 two-bedroom apartments are being funded through the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan, and are being built by Watpac Construction.

The units have been designed specifically for seniors, incorporating features such as bathroom and toilet grab rails, detachable handheld shower heads, and wide corridors to accommodate wheelchairs.

They also have a six-star energy rating to help keep living costs for residents low.

Ms Plibersek said that around Australia, Rudd Government programs would increase the stock of affordable housing by 80,000 homes by 2012.

“The $5.6 billion social housing initiative is the single largest investment in social housing ever undertaken by an Australian Government.

“In total it will deliver over 19,300 new homes, repair more than 70,000 others and support more than 15,000 jobs around Australia

“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.

Mr Terenzini said the Rosemeadow homes were located near shops, parks and medical services.

“I am delighted that the Stimulus Plan is delivering 57 new homes specifically for seniors at Rosemeadow.

“These homes will help to address the high demand for social housing among seniors in Sydney’s south west.”

The Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan included a $1.7 billion investment in new affordable housing in New South Wales to deliver 6,300 new homes.

In the Campbelltown area, the Stimulus Plan will deliver over 200 new homes – including 158 for seniors.