By Mitchell Clarke
Incoming Wayss CEO Elizabeth Thomas has vowed to step up advocacy for more investment in affordable housing throughout Cardinia and Casey.
Ms Thomas acknowledged that while the organisation must continue to provide an immediate and supportive response to families in crisis, the sustainable answer lies in getting all levels of government involved.
“Crisis response is not a solution to ending homelessness,” she said.
“Quite simply, housing ends homelessness.”
Ms Thomas said she’ll continue to call on all levels of government to work alongside property investors and the broader business and community services sector to work strategically and immediately to increase investment in affordable housing options.
“I very much look forward to continuing to lead Wayss’ future service delivery,” Ms Thomas said.
“Wayss is the largest player in the sector, however, because of our size we can be nimble and responsive to opportunities as and when they present.
“It also means that we can actively engage in strategic alliances and partnerships to maximise the impact of service we deliver to our clients and the community.”
Working alongside Windermere, Cardinia Shire Council, a private benefactor and a construction company, Wayss have created the Main Street project in Pakenham, an initiative aimed at helping women and children escaping family violence.
Ten transitional housing units have been developed and are expected to open next month, allowing victims a safe haven at an affordable cost of $100 per week.
“Normally at transitional accommodation, they’re given just six months which isn’t enough for women to rebuild their lives,” Ms Thomas said.
“At Main Street, they will stay up to two years.”
Wayss chair Steven Peterson said Ms Thomas’ corporate experience has made her the right person to lead the journey towards “the next phase at Wayss”.
“As the landscape within the sector changes so significantly, so must Wayss,” he said.
“In her time as interim CEO, Elizabeth has worked with the board to drive the process of transformational change within the organisation.
“Her skills and experience have been instrumental, as we move along the path of transition. We are thrilled to have secured Liz’s ongoing services and the announcement means we have all-important stability.”
