14/9/01
The Bunbury region will benefit from a financial injection of $5.43 million in this financial year to provide 52 new dwellings to meet the continuing strong demand for public housing, Housing and Works Minister Tom Stephens said today.
Mr Stephens said the expenditure was a substantial commitment and demonstrated the Government's determination to reduce waiting lists and provide affordable housing in all communities, particularly in the regions.
The main rental program for this year includes construction or purchase of 26 houses in Bunbury, including 17 for the aged; 10 in Carey Park, including seven single units; four family houses in Busselton; and three aged units at Harvey, as well as a family house at Capel.
Under the joint venture program, four senior units will be built at Cowaramup, while accommodation will be provided in Bunbury for domestic violence perpetrators under the Crisis Accommodation Program.
Also included in this year's allocation is a continuation of the significant refurbishment program in which 22 houses in various small towns will be upgraded.
In addition Bunbury will get two houses specifically for Aboriginal housing needs.
The budget provides $3.2 million for maintenance and improvements for the department's rental housing stock in the region.
In addition, the Department of Housing and Works' Landstart, will spend over $10 million dollars to produce 266 lots at Dalyellup in the Shire of Capel, and 145 lots in Bunbury in a joint venture development with private sector partners.
Over $3 million will also be spent in the New Living program to produce 64 dwelling sites in Carey Park, and Withers.
Mr Stephens said the overall expenditure would provide a substantial boost to local businesses involved in all types of housing construction. This was in addition to assisting people with genuine housing needs.
"The Labor Government is committed to giving people a fair go in the regions and the provision of public housing is a high priority for me," he said.
Media contact: Julie Cole 9213 6500
