Aboriginal people will have access to more private rentals and public housing in Victoria with a $5.4 million investment from the state government.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Housing Minister Colin Brooks on Friday announced the funding boost to expand the existing Aboriginal Private Rental Assistance Program.
The program covers both private rentals and public housing, and involves Aboriginal-controlled community organisations supporting people who are facing or experiencing homelessness to maintain or secure a tenancy.
From July, the program will be expanded into four new areas: Goulburn, Outer Gippsland, Brimbank Melton and Bayside Peninsula.
Existing program providers operate out of western Melbourne, northeastern Melbourne, Mallee, East Gippsland and Loddon.
"We're delighted to announce funding to expand the essential work of Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and the Aboriginal Private Rental Assistance Program, so more Aboriginal Victorians can secure and maintain homes in public housing and in the private rental market across the state," Mr Brooks said.
The four new areas were identified by the Aboriginal Housing and Homelessness Framework.
The Andrews government has also approved in principle a pilot program allowing Aboriginal public housing renters to switch their tenancy's management from Homes Victoria to an Aboriginal community housing provider.
The pilot is set to start in targeted areas, and give Aboriginal renters greater choice and flexibility along with enhanced culturally safe service provision, the government said.
Under the state's Big Housing Build project, 10 per cent of all new social housing will be constructed for Aboriginal Victorians, the government said.
Australian Associated Press
