150 social houses for Ballarat

UNDER the State Government’s Big Housing Build, Ballarat will see one-hundred and fifty fresh social houses constructed from next year.

A section of the Delacombe estate, within the vicinity of Mawarra Drive, Whitelaw Avenue, Sutton Street and Leawarra Crescent, will see 66 social houses dating to the 1970s replaced.

It’s expected that the project will inject $80 million into the Ballarat economy.

Minister for Housing Richard Wynne said the works will be “incredibly important” in creating high-quality stock, and 100 direct local jobs.

“It will play a significant role in loosening up a very tight private rental market. It offers other options,” he said.

“Our investment in housing is ensuring more Victorians have security and stability, whether that’s a roof over your head, or a job building one.

“When you invest in projects, like this one in Delacombe, it’s not just the direct provision of housing and jobs on site, it’s also the supply chain as well, which is so important to continue to boost a thriving economy like we have in Ballarat.”

While construction is underway, Mr Wynne said families within affected Delacombe estate properties will be “relocated to a suitable property.”

“They will have the first right of return,” he said.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Daniel Moloney said any project across the local government area that means housing can be more affordable is a “great thing.”

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the Big Housing Build will mean the city is stronger and more resilient.

“We’re… building homes that will transform the lives of community members,” she said.

A public consultation period will begin soon, set to inform a master plan.