Ash Bolt
The state government has committed to providing more social and affordable housing in Geelong to meet increased demand.
Housing Minister Richard Wynne visited Ormond Road in Geelong East recently to announce a $21.6 million upgrade of the precinct as part of the state government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build project.
The Ormond Road upgrade is expected to provide 27 new social housing homes, increasing the “much needed housing options” for people at risk of homelessness, women and children escaping family violence and Aboriginal Victorians, Mr Wynne said.
“The announcement of funding for the Ormond Road housing precinct is an important milestone in this incredible investment in new homes across the state,” he said.
“The development will provide more social and affordable housing for those who need it most, which is great news for the Geelong community.
“Our Big Housing Build is providing a roof over their head for Victorians who need it and create thousands of local jobs, supporting our state’s economic recovery.”
The project, which is expected to create 194 local jobs, is also planned to provide 27 affordable homes, providing new options for Geelong residents of Geelong looking for rentals.
The new homes will replace the 18 existing ageing social housing homes at the site.
Consultation on the masterplan with current residents and other stakeholders has started and construction is anticipated to be completed by 2024.
Geelong MP Christine Couzens said the project would address the housing needs of Geelong.
“This investment will make a real difference, providing people with the safety and security of social and affordable housing and helping build a strong local community,” she said.
The Ormond Road properties are part of the 12,000 new homes that will be built across the state under the Big Housing Build project, which is expected to increase the social housing supply by 10 per cent and create 40,000 jobs over four years.
A minimum of $180 million of the project’s $5.3 billion budget has been allocated to projects across the City of Greater Geelong.
