Homeswest funding in 1998-99 for 82 new dwellings in Albany region

23/7/98

Homeswest will allocate $6.7 million in 1998-99 to provide 82 new dwellings in the Albany Region to meet the continuing strong demand for public housing.

Housing Minister Dr Kim Hames said the expenditure was a substantial commitment and demonstrated the Government's determination to reduce waiting lists and provide affordable housing in all communities.

The main rental included construction or purchase of 22 additional homes in Albany, 14 in Katanning and 30 allocated across Denmark, Wagin, Hyden, Kulin, Nyabing, Varley and Darkan.

One third of the new housing would be allocated to seniors and a number of projects would be undertaken as joint ventures between Homeswest and community groups or local governments.

Dr Hames said Homeswest would also provide 11 additional homes in the region for specific Aboriginal housing needs.

The Minister said the expenditure would not only assist people with genuine housing needs but would also provide a substantial boost to local businesses involved in everything from housing construction to land development.

In Albany, the housing program included 14 additional three-bedroom and six two-bedroom family homes as well as two one-bedroom units.

In Katanning, there would be four new one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units for seniors, as well as two-bedroom and four three-bedroom family homes.

Denmark would gain two three-bedroom and two four-bedroom family homes, as well as four joint venture two-bedroom homes for seniors.

Joint venture projects between Homeswest and community groups or local governments would also provide two one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units for seniors in Wagin, three three-bedroom family homes and two two-bedroom units for singles in Kojonup, four two-bedroom seniors units in Kulin, four two-bedroom units for singles in Hyden, three one-bedroom units for singles in Nyabing, one four-bedroom and two three-bedroom family homes in Varley and two three-bedroom family homes in Darkan.

Dr Hames said Homeswest's Aboriginal Housing Program in 1998-99 included nine additional family homes in Albany and one each in Gnowangerup and Narrogin.

The Minister said a substantial allocation of $415 million across the State for Government home loan assistance measures would also assist many low to moderate income families into home ownership.

Media contact: Caroline Lacy (08) 9424 7450

Homeswest: Bev Wilcox (08)9222 4500