Homeswest to concentrate on building homes for seniors

Western Australia's No. 1 home builder, Homeswest, is radically changing its construction program to cater for the growing number of seniors in the community. 

Housing Minister Jim McGinty said 43 per cent of Homeswest's 2,800 homes to be built this financial year would be specifically designed for people over the age of 55. 

In 1985-86, 23 per cent of the construction program was devoted to seniors' housing.

The areas of greatest activity would include Fremantle (77 homes), Gosnells (62), Hillarys (44) and Glendalough (43).

"In the past, Homeswest's building program has been mainly focussed on providing accommodation for low-income families - however, there is an ever-increasing demand for seniors' housing," Mr McGinty said. 

"The extent of how our population is ageing has been brought home to me by the estimate that by the year 2006, an estimated 75 per cent of Australian households will be without children. 

"There is an obvious need for both the public and private sectors of the housing construction industry to help provide for aged people." 

Mr McGinty said Homeswest would provide both rental accommodation and homes for purchase by seniors in locations that were close to public transport, shops and other amenities. 

"In most cases, Homeswest's program of urban consolidation means that seniors can be offered accommodation in the areas in which they have lived for many years," he said.

More than 800 rental homes would be built for seniors throughout the State, while $22 million would be spent to begin construction on 400 Wise Choice homes this financial year. 

"Wise Choice allows seniors to buy modern, low-maintenance homes that better suit their needs," Mr McGinty said. 

"Seniors who meet Homeswest's income and asset guidelines are able to buy the units ranging from $65,000 to $95,000. 

"Where the sale of an existing home does not raise sufficient funds, Homeswest can assist by providing a top-up loan."  

Mr McGinty said the Lawrence Government was committed to improving housing options for seniors through improved rental accommodation or access to affordable housing.