Surf Coast Shire Council has chosen Housing Choices Australia as the preferred provider for the Aireys Inlet Affordable Housing Project.
The national not-for-profit housing provider was endorsed by council during its May meeting to help develop social and affordable housing on 2 Fraser Drive.
Councillor Libby Stapleton said selecting a provider from the expressions of interest stage was a “significant step in the process”.
“Housing Choices Australia had the best alignment to our values and the community vision for the site, to achieve a high-quality housing development,” she said.
“The co-design stage is exciting, as it’s shaping what the housing could look like and how many people it could house.
“It highlights our commitment to play our role in the affordable accommodation crisis and a national issue that we’re feeling the impacts of locally, particularly in our coastal towns.”
Cr Stapleton said a co-design session on June 3 brought together Housing Choices Australia representatives, councillors, council officers, and a community advisory group.
“Community representatives were open-minded and curious as they considered options to achieve the best outcome for the site,” she said.
“This included the density, height, traffic, parking, and the neighbouring community garden.
“Ultimately, we want the best outcome for all parties, and I look forward to seeing what that is.”
The Aireys Inlet Affordable Housing Project’s next phase is a final design concept and full proposal that council will consider later this year.
