Work begins on Whiteman Edge development

Stage One of Whiteman Edge, a 3,000-lot development which will provide affordable housing options, has commenced with Housing Minister Troy Buswell turning the first sod today.

The 225.7ha development is a joint venture between the Department of Housing and Brookfield Residential Properties.

"This project will see 3,000 lots come on to the market to help address the strong demand for affordable housing in the north-east corridor," Mr Buswell said.

"The single residential lots will start at $194,000 while smaller house and land packages will start from the early to mid $300,000 mark, making it affordable for low to moderate income earners.

"Whiteman Edge will offer a range of housing options for a wide range of groups, including first homebuyers, young families and downsizers."

Stage One will comprise 112 lots and will include a display village and sales office.

The Minister said the joint management of Whiteman Edge by the Department of Housing and Brookfield Residential Properties would encourage each organisation to utilise its strengths to deliver a successful outcome.

"The private sector will continue to play an expanded role in helping to provide affordable housing in the State, and we are committed to greater collaboration between the Government and the private sector to meet this need," he said.

"This joint venture has allowed development of land at Henley Brook to be brought forward by three years, and increased the number of lots on the market."

The State Government was successful in attracting a Federal Government grant of $6.9million through the Housing Affordability Fund Round Two (Infrastructure) to bring forward major infrastructure works such as sewerage, water and roads.  The full amount of this grant will be passed on to low and moderate income homebuyers through a rebate system.

The Whiteman Edge development site is approximately 20km north-east of the Perth CBD and is opposite Whiteman Park.  When complete, it will include 22ha devoted to shared community recreational facilities, a neighbourhood shopping centre and schools.