Shire moves forward on Aireys Inlet Affordable Housing Project

THE Surf Coast Shire council has endorsed the concept design for the Aireys Inlet Affordable Housing Project, marking the next milestone in the development of social and affordable housing slated for the area.

It follows the endorsement last year of national not-for-profit housing provider Housing Choices Australia as preferred development partner for the council-owned block at 2 Fraser Drive.

The project forms one of the key projects in the shire’s Affordable Accommodation Action Plan 2024, adopted at the council’s last meeting, which takes into account the shifting challenges of housing affordability and the opportunities presented at a state and federal level.

“Improving access to affordable residential accommodation is one of our goals, as we recognise the economic and social impacts that a lack of affordable housing is having on our communities,” Cr Libby Stapleton said.

“We’ve heard that community members are being priced out of the market and struggling to find rentals. Subsequently, businesses are finding it difficult to attract workers.

“I’m proud that we’re playing our role and look forward to building on recent achievements such as our Tiny Houses on Wheels Pilot, our continued advocacy efforts to other levels of government, and the progress on the Aireys Inlet Affordable Housing Project.”

The concept for the Aireys Inlet project was co-designed by a community advisory group of 11 local representatives, along with the council and Housing Choices Australia.

“The enthusiastic community members provided valuable local knowledge and views which have shaped the concept design,’ she said.

“I know the Aireys community is pleased to reach this important milestone and, like me, they’re keen to watch the next stages unfold.

“The concept design shows the proposed layout of buildings, private and public open space, and internal roads and parking.

“There are also guiding principles for the development including being community and socially-focused, an environmentally-sustainable design and respecting the existing landscape.”

The shire has proposed to enter a 50-year lease for the site at Fraser Drive, for an annual fee of $1, with Housing Choices Australia, and work with the non-profit to secure funding for the development.

“The lease option avoids the permanent loss of a valuable asset and allows council to retain control of the community garden and pathway, without the need to subdivide,” Cr Stapleton said.

The proposed lease will be publicly advertised, with the local community invited to provide feedback over a four-week submission period.

This feedback, along with recommended next steps for the project, will then be considered by the council.

Detailed planning of the development will occur at a later date, during which there will be additional opportunities for the community to offer their thoughts on the project.