Affordable Housing Units Constructed and Ready for Residents in Murtoa
Published on 13 February 2024
Yarriambiack Shire Affordable Housing Units Constructed and Ready for Residents in Murtoa
In an exciting development for Yarriambiack Shire, four affordable housing units have been successfully constructed, with two located in Murtoa and two in Woomelang. This achievement was made possible by securing $2.8 million in funding through the Regional Infrastructure Fund – Round 2, State Government grant opportunity in 2022.
Mayor Kylie Zanker expressed gratitude, stating that “the funding has allowed the realisation of the Council’s vision to offer alternative housing options for our older residents.”
“The primary goal is to provide downsizing opportunities into smaller, energy-efficient houses that require less maintenance, catering specifically to the needs of the aging population”, Mayor Zanker stated.
The Shire has collaborated with Dunmunkle Lodge to manage the units in Murtoa. Following a thorough expression of interest and public notification process, the Council unanimously decided to enter into a 50-year lease agreement with Dunmunkle Lodge. Mayor Zanker highlighted the significance of this proactive partnership, emphasising the combination of securing funds for housing expansion and collaborating with a reputable not-for-profit, Shire-based organisation for future management.
Peter Ballagh, CEO of Dunmunkle Lodge, welcomed the partnership as a “commendable initiative that values enabling residents to stay longer in their communities”. “The collaboration also opens up opportunities for residents to access additional services such as home and gardening maintenance services” Mr Ballagh said.
Mayor Zanker confirmed, “the Murtoa units are complete, and are ready for tenants”, with Mr Ballagh confirming that “leases have been entered into and the new homes will soon be occupied”.
There will be an official hand over of both new and existing housing units in Murtoa to Dunmunkle Lodge on Tuesday 20 February.
Mr Ballagh acknowledged that “the partnership not only benefits the new tenants but also presents an opportunity for them to sell existing properties in Murtoa, potentially making room for families to relocate to the Shire”.
Mayor Zanker extended heartfelt thanks to the Victorian State Government for the funding and welcomed future opportunities for enhancing the housing stock within the Shire. The initiative stands as a positive example of effective collaboration between state government, local government and a not-for-profit organisations for community development.