Twenty-seven homes in Brimbank will be opened up for people who are at risk of, or already, homeless.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced last week the state government would work with community housing groups to buy 18 houses and lease nine properties in the municipality.
The announcement is part of the state government’s $109 million plan to help thousands of people sleeping rough or in temporary shelters get back on their feet.
Mr Andrews launched the five-year investment plan at the ALP state conference in Melbourne earlier this month, proposing the state government provides 120 new or developed units in “hotspots” of need in Brimbank, Darebin, Greater Geelong, Melbourne, Port Phillip and Yarra, as well as a new crisis centre in Melbourne’s west, 30 units for vulnerable women and children and targeted support for people needing alcohol, drug and health services.
Mr Andrews said the plan wasn’t just about “having a roof over your head”.
“It’s about getting the support, the self-belief and the sense of belonging you need, to turn your life around,” he said.
Kororoit MP Marlene Kairouz said the state government is working with the housing sector to finalise its “rapid housing program”.
“There are many factors that can drive homelessness,” Ms Kairouz said.
Good Shepherd’s youth and family services manager Jo Read said the government’s commitment to address Victoria’s homelessness crisis was welcome and “very much needed”.
“It’s vital that there’s a focus on youth homelessness, as young people are an extremely vulnerable group,” Ms Read said. “Many lack the life skills and supports … opportunities to live securely may also prevent young people from falling into a cycle of long-term couch surfing and sleeping rough.”
