Social housing plan for Bannockburn

A PLANNING permit application for a social housing development on vacant land in Bannockburn has been lodged with the State Government.

Catholic Care Victoria (CCV) has applied to build a 26-dwelling development in Archer Way, submitting its plan directly to the government under the Development Facilitation Program.

 

The program provides expedited planning pathways and facilitation services for eligible projects, including housing developments.

It effectively bypasses councils and aims to increase housing supply at a faster rate, with Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny able to approve projects without the need for council support.

CCV is registered as a provider of long-term social housing and has set up similar facilities at various locations around the state.

 

The Bannockburn proposal is for 26 single-storey homes – 18 with one bedroom, six with two, and two with three bedrooms – and is yet to be formally advertised.

A planning permit for a kindergarten and indoor swimming pool on the broader site was approved in October 2023.

“Housing is more than shelter; it is a foundation for dignity, stability and opportunity,” CCV acting chief executive Kelly Rolfe said.

“These homes are intentionally designed for people who are often excluded from the private rental market.

“They offer safety, stability and the chance for a fresh start.”

 

CCV will target allocation of the properties to Victorian Housing Register applicants who have a priority need.

It says they will include a “significant proportion” of older women at risk of homelessness, as well as single parents and children impacted by family violence.

“We chose Bannockburn because the need is real and immediate,” Ms Rolfe said. “Everyone deserves a safe place to call home.

“Community housing changes lives. It is a foundation for health, education and social participation.

“When someone has a safe, secure home, everything else becomes possible. Stability, healing and the chance to rebuild follow from that.”

CCV says the model proposed for Bannockburn supports residents to access tailored services, build financial stability, reconnect with the community, and work towards long-term independence.

 

“We are not just building homes. We are creating futures,” Ms Rolfe said.

“We see every day how a stable home can change the trajectory of a person’s life.

“When people feel safe, they can focus on their health, their family and their future.”

While not being directly involved in the plans, the Golden Plains Shire has indicated general support for the move.

“Council is supportive of additional social and affordable housing investment in Golden Plains Shire,” a spokesperson said.

“The process for assessing this application sits with the Minister for Planning.”