70 new units in Tweed to help combat homelessness

COMMUNITY organisation Social Futures will transform a vacant retirement village into 70 supported temporary accommodation units to address homelessness in the Tweed with the first 20 homes to be delivered in the coming weeks.

The former over-55s village has been vacant since it was put on the market in 2023, and the $525,800 project will provide a safe place for community members, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said the revived complex would provide more than just a roof over people’s heads.

“By working collaboratively with government, council, and community partners, we’re not only increasing the availability of temporary accommodation – we’re creating a pathway to lasting, positive change,” Davies said.

“With 24/7 onsite management, security and access to professional wrap-around support services, we will provide a safe and supportive environment for participants.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the 2022 floods had a particularly hard impact on the region.

“I have been deeply engaged with Tweed Shire Council, community housing providers like Social Futures and others to address the long-standing issue of homelessness in the Tweed,” Saffin said.

“This repurposing model, whereby a vacant facility can be easily converted into managed temporary accommodation, will work well here in Tweed Heads, where the need is great.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said they knew smarter solutions were needed to deliver housing faster.

“Last year, we created the Homelessness Innovation Fund to do just that,” Jackson said.

“The Fund is about giving trusted community housing and homelessness organisations such as Social Futures a solid foundation to trial new approaches as we work together to tackle the housing crisis.”

Similar programs across the country have demonstrated that well-managed housing with support services reduces homelessness, improves social outcomes, and creates safer communities.

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said the project was much needed.

“This type of development is exactly what we have been crying out for in The Tweed, not just a roof, but the support people need to get their lives back on track.”

Those experiencing homelessness and needing emergency accommodation can contact Link2home 24 hours a day on 1800 152 152.