AT June’s ordinary Council meeting, Greater Shepparton City Council resolved to sell part of the land at 45 Parkside Drive to Women’s Housing Ltd to facilitate the construction of a 45, single storey dwelling for affordable housing purposes.
Women’s Housing Ltd, a Registered Housing Association with a long history of supporting vulnerable women and children across Victoria through a range of innovative housing and support services, has been advised by Homes Victoria that the application was not successful, and that no funding would be provided for the development.
A Homes Victoria spokesperson said, “We know there is demand for social and affordable housing right across Victoria – that’s why we’re investing $5.3 billion in the landmark Big Housing Build.”
“The Big Housing Build is investing $1.25 billion in regional areas – including a landmark minimum investment guarantee of $45 million for Greater Shepparton – ensuring the economic and social benefits of the program are felt in communities across the state.”
They said $37.5M is already being invested in the Shepparton area, which will create more than 100 new homes.
The land at 45 Parkside Drive will remain as Council property.
Women’s Housing Ltd has expressed its disappointment with the outcome and has provided its gratitude for the time and effort that Council and its officers gave in support of the application.
“Council remains hopeful that Women’s Housing Ltd will continue to seek opportunities to work with Council on future funding rounds of the Big Housing Build or other Community Housing Associations to facilitate future affordable housing developments,” said mayor Cr Shane Sali.
