BGT adds housing to social services

AS part of a broad approach to client wellbeing, BGT Jobs and Training recently launched an affordable accommodation arm to their range of community education and social services.

The not-for-profit has bought a local residential property which will be two homes for eligible program participants.

“BGT Jobs and Training aims to provide a wrap-around approach to every participant, ensuring they reach their full potential, and it has become clear that housing insecurity is a major barrier for many of our participants,” said BGT Jobs and Training CEO Graham McMahon.

“We identified that even among our full-time apprentices, housing insecurity has the potential to undo years of hard work.

“When the opportunity presented itself to take direct action and relieve some of the housing pressures, we knew we had to act.

“There is no question that more will need to be done in order to resolve the shortage of affordable housing, which is why BGT Jobs and Training remains committed to working with any and all interested parties across the region, to get the best possible outcomes for our community.”

The property’s tenancies will be managed by a real estate agency, and program participants will be supported to build their rental history so they can transition to other housing when they’re ready.

Board chair Ben Davison said an affordable, secure, and stable home is essential to seeking, completing, and maintaining training and employment.

“BGT Jobs and Training is not a large organisation, but we are proud to play our part in addressing the needs of the people, businesses and communities of Ballarat and the surrounding region,” he said.

“Considering the size of BGT, this program, while initially only delivering two affordable dwellings, represents a significant investment by our organisation.

“We understand that our contribution will play a small part in the needs of the Ballarat community, and appreciate that addressing the long-term housing crisis for the region will require everyone in the community contributing what they can, to address and resolve these challenges.

“This program is another example of how we are constantly evolving to meet the needs of our community.”