By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A VACANT block in Pakenham will be sold to a social housing provider to make way for up to 12 homes.
Single parent families living on the street or sleeping rough will be first in line for the commission flats approved for 20 Storey Road, Pakenham.
As the welfare housing proposal was approved at a recent Cardinia Shire Council meeting, it was said there was a “shortage” of accommodation for families down on their luck.
Council’s planning report revealed local service providers were struggling to provide short, long or sustainable rental support for families experiencing crisis.
Councillor George Blenkhorn said it was intended that those at a financial loss due to domestic abuse, marriage breakdown, job insecurity of straight misfortune would be offered refuge at the homes for between 3-5 years as they got back on their feet.
“Many people (facing financial difficulty) may now be there of their own choosing. They must be supported,” he said.
He acknowledged the proposal may cause some distress among nearby residents, but assured the social housing hub would be managed by the housing provider.
“I’d image local residents may be concerned but they should be assured the housing site will be managed and managed well.”
In the most recent census, 145 people were recorded as ‘sleeping rough’ in Cardinia while a further 235 were identified as living in caravans, improvised homes or tents.
State-wide, the highest proportion of homelessness was experienced in the city’s south-east.
Homelessness jumped 94 per cent in Dandenong compared with findings from the previous census.
Local service providers confirmed with the Gazette that Cardinia was increasingly experiencing issues previously seen in surrounding areas, trending along the Pakenham/Cranbourne line.
The proposal was carried unanimously by councillors, including strong supporter councillor Leticia Wilmot who said it was an issue “very close” to her heart.
“I’ve known people who have found selves couch surfing … (we are) giving them a hand when times get tough,” she said.
The land was pegged for social housing due to its proximity to schools, playgrounds public transport and shops.
The council-owned land will be sold or leased to a housing provider for below market value to build between eight and 12 dwellings.
The land is valued between $650,000 and $700,000.
The council report intends for the site to remain a long-term social housing option.
