Stimulus plan delivers jobs and affordable homes in Ballina
Minister for Housing Tanya Plibersek and Member for Page Janelle Saffin today inspected two projects that will deliver a total of 19 new affordable homes in Ballina.
Under the first project, Capital Insight has received $4.4 million in funding through the Stimulus Plan to build nine one-bedroom and six two-bedroom units at 119-123 Burnet Street, Ballina.
The units, which are expected to be completed by July, have been designed specifically for seniors, incorporating features such as bathroom and toilet grab rails, detachable handheld showers, and wide corridors to accommodate wheelchairs.
Under the second project, the North Coast Community Housing Company has received $1.1 million in funding through the Stimulus Plan to build four two-bedroom units at 125-127 Burnet Street, Ballina.
The new homes at both sites will have a six-star energy efficiency rating and include building insulation, energy efficient glazing and lighting, shading and 2000-litre water tanks.
Ms Plibersek said the units would provide homes for some of the most high-need clients on the social housing waiting list.
“These developments will help the Rudd Government achieve the goal of halving the rate of homelessness by 2020. They are also supporting local jobs through the use of local builders, contractors and suppliers,” Ms Plibersek said.
Ms Saffin said the homes were located near parks, schools and Ballina District Hospital.
“It is terrific that the Rudd Government is making such a big investment in affordable housing in Ballina,” Ms Saffin said.
“These projects will deliver 19 new units in an area where affordable housing is greatly needed.”
The Rudd Government’s $36.2 million investment in social housing in the electorate of Page will deliver 116 new homes in Ballina, Casino, Grafton and Lismore.
Construction is under way on 93 of these homes, with 12 homes already complete.
