City approves social housing committee

THE City of Greater Geelong council has approved the establishment of the Affordable Social Housing Plan Advisory Committee.

The committee will look to help the city achieve its goal of creating 12,000 new social housing dwellings in the next 20 years.

This goal was established as part of the council’s Social Housing Plan 2020-2041.

Social Inclusion portfolio chair Cr Sarah Mansfield said the plan was an important step to looking after the most vulnerable members of the community.

“There are thousands of community members living in housing stress or are homeless, due to a huge deficit in the availability of social and affordable housing.

“Unfortunately, the need will only grow as a result of COVID-19, but this is an opportunity for council to make a difference in this space.”

Acting mayor Kylie Grzybek said the committee will help guide council’s decision-making with regards to social housing.

“The committee will draw upon local expertise, experience, and networks to inform council decision making by providing pathways for community input and providing regular feedback.”

The committee will also be responsible for advising and assisting council in installing the plan, identifying priorities to advocate to state and federal government, monitoring research on the community’s housing needs, and assisting with opportunities related to social housing opportunities.

Cr Mansfield encouraged members of the community to consider joining the committee.

“Many community members have expressed interest in council’s Social Housing Plan, so I really encourage them to put their hands up for the committee. We need a broad range of voices to provide guidance and advice to council on this issue.”