New dwellings are coming to Geelong to help establish crisis and transitional housing for veterans and their families.
Ten houses will be constructed in Geelong as part of Vasey Returned Services League’s (RSL’s) V Satellite Centre, thanks to $4,675,669 in funding through the federal government’s Veterans’ Acute Housing Program.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said the program was helping increase the capacity of organisations nationwide to deliver coordinated support.
“This investment will help to provide veterans and their families with a pathway to access safe and secure temporary accommodation,” he said.
“With veterans three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population, this Program is intended to support veterans experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.”
Funding for the Geelong dwellings forms part of the more than $5.86 million received by not-for-profit organisation Vasey RSL Care to address veteran homelessness in Victoria.
Federal Labor Senator for Victoria Raff Ciccone said the funding allowed veterans to access support and affordable housing across the state.
“We have an obligation to look after these local heroes who have given so much to our country,” he said.
“Our community cares deeply about not only commemorating veterans for their service but also supporting them when they’re in need.”
Veterans at risk or currently experiencing homelessness can reach out to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs on 1800 838 372 or Open Arms on 1800 011 046 to be connected with appropriate support.
