Construction has begun on a pioneer disability housing development in St Albans.
The Browne Avenue project is one of the first developments being built to meet National Disability Insurance Scheme’s supported disability accommodation standards.
The development will feature four specialist disability accommodation dwellings to help cater for the growing demand from NDIS participants in Melbourne’s west. It will feature an on-site staff unit to provide 24-hour support.
Housing, Disability and Ageing Minister Martin Foley, in attendance to celebrate the start of construction, said the breaking of ground served as a significant moment.
“The NDIS roll-out and the housing choices that will accompany it are about delivering the promise of an ordinary life for people with disability – and ensuring they are able to live their life, their way,” he said.
The development is a collaboration between the state government, which has provided the land, and disability service providers Active Community Housing and Annecto.
Community Sector Banking is contributing by providing its first loan in Victoria for specialist disability accommodation under the NDIS.
Community Sector Banking Victorian state manager Bruce Argyle said the project was a significant milestone.
“As one of the state’s first specialist disability housing loans, this development is a true milestone for Victoria and Community Sector Banking,” he said.
“Australia needs much more specialist disability housing to meet demand, and we are committed to supporting its development to ensure everyone has a safe and comfortable place to call home.”
The development is scheduled for completion by August this year.
Annecto chief executive Estelle Fyffe said consultation with prospective tenants would start soon.
“Annecto will soon begin pre-planning with prospective tenants to ensure they receive the appropriate supports,” she said. “We are looking forward to supporting the residents to live independently.”
