Delivering Social Housing In The Heart Of Melbourne

The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring Victorians in need have access to safe and secure housing close to jobs, transport, education, health and support services.

Minister for Housing Richard Wynne today opened a brand new 48-apartment complex in the heart of Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market – offering modern social housing to Victorians most in need.

The $26.55 million project was funded by the Labor Government, creating 176 jobs and contributing to Victoria’s economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

This investment means Victorians living with a disability, people aged over 55, people experiencing homelessness or domestic violence victim survivors now have the security and safety of long term housing.

The development includes 47 one-bedroom apartments and one two-bedroom apartment – including six apartments designed to platinum level Liveable Housing Australia standards, making them liveable and adaptable for people with a range of disabilities.

All of the apartments meet the Better Apartments Design standards and achieve a minimum Liveable Housing Australia silver rating, including a 5 Star Green Star and an 8-star NatHERS rating – making them more comfortable during summer and winter, and saving renters money on their power bills.

The project has been delivered in partnership with the City of Melbourne who provided the land and Housing Choices Victoria who will own and manage the homes.

The social housing development is part of the Munro site, which is creating an additional 1,800 square metres of retail and hospitality outlets adjoining the Queen Victoria Market. The development also includes City of Melbourne’s largest new community hub with a library, family and other services.

This project is in addition to the Labor Governments landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, which is delivering more than 12,000 new homes while creating an average of 10,000 jobs per year over the four year program, and is the largest single investment in social and affordable housing in Australia’s history.