Launch of Western Australia's affordable eco-village

Western Australians will soon have the opportunity to purchase affordable and eco-friendly homes in Western Australia's newest housing development.

Housing and Works Minister Michelle Roberts today officially announced the joint venture between the State Government and Cedar Woods Properties Limited to develop Harrisdale.

"The 30ha Harrisdale site in WA's south-east corridor will include 250 lots with the potential for 640 sustainable homes and 40 businesses," Mrs Roberts said.

"Affordability and sustainability are the two main elements that define the Harrisdale development."

The new development would provide a range of housing options, including house and land packages priced under $350,000 specifically designed for first home buyers and people on low to moderate incomes.

"There will be more opportunities for first home buyers to purchase a home at Harrisdale under the State Government's First Start Shared Equity scheme," the Minister said.

"The State Government will acquire lots to build public rentals and community housing, providing close to 70 dwellings."

Mrs Roberts said Cedar Woods Properties Limited was the successful proponent because its development plans incorporated energy efficient Water Wise and Greensmart initiatives.

Cedar Woods' managing director Paul Sadleir said that the State Goverment had a strong track record in sustainable urban development.

"Cedar Woods looks forward to combining the State Government's strengths with our own, to deliver Harrisdale as a best practice example of affordable and sustainable living," Mr Sadleir said.

"We will make sure that Harrisdale is an exciting and vibrant place to live, a place for those who want to make a difference in addressing climate change."

Included in the lot price, purchasers will be provided with a sustainability package which will contain the following:

·         Ecosmart post occupancy energy audit;

·         $500 rebate for solar hot water systems (in addition to the State Government rebate);

·         3,000 litre rainwater tank;

·         alternative water supply for gardens;

·        supply and installation of a one kilowatt photovoltaic cell;

·         boundary and corner fencing to all lots; and

·         water wise landscaping.

Armadale MLA Alannah MacTiernan said the Harrisdale development would also meet the sustainability objectives of the City of Armadale.

"Harrisdale shows that the State Government is not just thinking about the future of WA's housing needs, it is also working to sustain the needs of our environment," Ms MacTiernan said.

Stage One of the development is due for release in the financial year 2009-10.