Construction has begun on a new project in St Kilda to help people experiencing homelessness to get the support they need while getting back on their feet.
The Victorian Government has partnered with City of Port Phillip Council and St Kilda Community Housing to build 26 brand-new, safe and energy efficient self-contained units with spaces for support services and concierge.
The Government is contributing more than $6 million towards the new housing and will also cover operating costs for four years. Council is providing $4.75 million and land towards the project.
St Kilda Community Housing will manage the property and provide access to wrap-around services.
“City of Port Phillip is proud to be providing funding and surplus land towards the Wellington Street project,” said Mayor, Heather Cunsolo.
“This continues our longstanding commitment to changing lives by providing a safe place to call home for those who need it most.”
The new project will operate using the evidence-based Housing First approach that advocates for early intervention and is designed to addressthe multiple and complex needs of people who have been sleeping rough. This approach prioritises safe and permanent housing, and provides support workers to address complex needs.
The project is being funded through the $528 million Building Works housing stimulus package to upgrade and maintain more than 23,000 social housing units across Victoria and build 168 new social housing homes.
“This new project is not just giving people a safe and connected place to call home, it’s providing the wrap-around services that address many of the root causes of homelessness,” said Victorian Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing.
St Kilda Community Housing Chair, Liz Johnstone said the organisation was proud to deliver both the construction and future tenancy management and support of the project.
“Through this partnership, our core purpose of housing more people in better quality homes will be realised,” said Ms Johnstone.
