Australia’s community housing providers have welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement that the next round of the Housing Australia Future Fund will support up to 21,000 new social and affordable rental homes. The announcement marks the largest single round of investment under the program and provides long awaited certainty for organisations working to address growing housing need.
CHIA NSW Acting CEO Caitlin McDowell said the scale of the commitment reflects the urgent need for more homes right across the country.
“Access to a safe and affordable home opens the door to education, work and full participation in community life. This program gives thousands of households a real chance to rebuild their lives with stability.”
Ms McDowell said the delivery model, which centres not for profit community housing providers, is critical to ensuring homes continue to serve the public good long after they are completed.
“For more than four decades, community housing providers in NSW have delivered homes that remain affordable and community focused over the long term. This investment will support local jobs, strengthen regional economies and deliver ongoing savings for governments.”
Australian Community Housing CEO Mark Degotardi said the sector is well positioned to deliver the next wave of projects.
“Our members already manage more than $43 billion in assets and support over 200,000 people. Many providers have strong pipelines and secured land, meaning we can move quickly and responsibly,” he said.
He noted that the dedicated First Nations housing stream and expanded regional focus were important elements of the announcement.
“Housing need is not confined to our cities. Regional and remote communities deserve the same opportunities, and culturally led delivery by Aboriginal housing organisations is essential.”
Home in Place Group CEO Lyndall Robertshaw said the announcement demonstrates growing national confidence in the capability and experience of the community housing sector.
“This is the kind of long term commitment that gives organisations like ours the capacity to plan ahead and bring forward projects that meet local needs. We have deep roots in the communities we serve and strong partnerships that help us deliver homes that support health, education and employment outcomes.
“At Home in Place, we stand ready to work with government and our sector colleagues to make the most of this opportunity. These homes will matter not only for the people who move into them, but for generations that follow.”
Ms Robertshaw said the next phase will require thoughtful collaboration across all levels of government, industry partners and providers.
“Successful delivery at this scale relies on genuine partnership. With the right settings, these homes will make a lasting difference.”
