More Victorians living with mental illness will have the security and stability of a home thanks to a major housing investment from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Housing Colin Brooks today announced $85 million in grants from the Social Housing Growth Fund to build homes across Victoria designed specifically for Victorians living with mental illness who require ongoing support.
The funding is in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System recommendation to deliver codesigned homes for Victorians living with mental ill health and in need of ongoing care with accompanying wrap-around health, mental health and wellbeing supports.
The Labor Government is funding more than 30 projects to be delivered by community housing agencies that will deliver more than 200 homes, create around 880 jobs and boost Victoria's economy.
The design of the homes is influenced by people who have experience managing mental illness and incorporate preferred housing types, proximity to local amenities and services, and building designs that support wellbeing.
The housing will feature natural light, flexible living spaces, safety and security, private entrances and green landscaping along with holistic support models.
The provision of adequate housing was one of the recommendations in the final report of the Royal Commission and the Government is in the process of implementing all those recommendations.
More than 2,000 homes will be provided to Victorians with mental illness as part of the Government's landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build - the biggest ever investment in social housing by any state or territory.
The government is working with agencies and support organisations to ensure the housing system meets the needs of people living with mental illness.
The Victorian Housing Register is also going to be revised to improve the allocation of supported housing among people living with mental illness, including people who need ongoing intensive treatment, care and support.
As stated by Minister for Housing Colin Brooks
"A stable home can bring a sense of safety, security and belonging, and those things are fundamental to maintaining a person's mental health or helping them recover from mental illness."
"Our unprecedented investment in social and affordable housing is changing lives - giving thousands of Victorians the security and stability of a home while also providing tens of thousands of Victorian jobs."
As stated by Minister for Mental Health Gabrielle Williams
"All of us know someone who has struggled with mental illness and these projects give those Victorians the support and community connections they need to live better lives and reach their goals."
As stated by Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
"The people of Ballarat welcome this investment with open arms. Our community is delighted to have more housing that will change the lives of some of our most vulnerable citizens."
As stated by Member for Eureka Michaela Settle
"This investment will not only give people in need a place to live but will also support those struggling with mental illness."
As stated by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
"We're already seeing the benefits of the Big Housing Build across our region, and I look forward to seeing even more locals in need have a safe, affordable place to call home."
