The Victorian Government is investing $80 million to address a critical shortage of housing in regional Victoria, with recent rental market data showing housing affordability has fallen to its lowest level since data was first collected in 2000.
“We are calling on local landowners and developers to put their hand up to help make a contribution towards the future of northern Victoria, create local jobs and put a roof over the heads of those in our community who need it most,” Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp said.
The funding will focus on buying new homes, house and land packages and land zoned for residential use.
Strict guidelines for proposals need to be addressed, including proximity to retail, schools and transport.
All Victorian regional areas will be considered, with a preference on the Greater Shepparton, Mildura, Swan Hill regions – as well as Macedon Ranges, Mt Alexander, Greater Geelong, Latrobe, Moorabool, Golden Plains, Bass Coast, Surf Coast, Horsham, Wellington, East and South Gippsland, Baw Baw, Alpine and Mansfield local government areas.
Landowners and developers are encouraged to partner with community housing providers, local government and other organisations to submit proposals to Homes Victoria.
Submissions close at 2 pm on October 7 through tenders.vic.gov.au