Minister for Housing Harriet Shing joined local housing advocates at a roundtable meeting on November 24, to provide insights into the local impact of the recent state housing reforms.
The meeting included Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale, representatives from Bass Coast Health, Gippsland Homelessness Network, Gippsland Family Violence Alliance, The Salvation Army, Community Housing (Vic) Ltd, YMCA, Housing Matters, Bass Coast Specialist School, Rotary Club of Wonthaggi, Live at the Cape, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, and Bass Coast Shire Council.
Ms Crugnale said the minister was interested in understanding what was happening on the ground in Bass and appreciated the honest and informed feedback from the roundtable attendees.
She said a diverse group gathered to discuss the issues, from sustainable builders and advocates to on the ground support services.
"The conversation was robust and solution orientated, with a focus on how we could better support vulnerable residents and look to innovative new ideas to increase the local housing supply," Ms Crugnale said.
"I want to thank the commitment of everyone present to work together, think innovatively, and be driven by their compassion for those in need in our community. We remain committed to working with locals to deliver more housing for Bass."
The state governments Housing Statement - The Decade Ahead 2024-34 sets out a commitment to communities to boost housing supply and affordability in Victoria.
Ms Crugnale said the government's $5.3 billion Big Housing Build investment will see 25 per cent going into regional Victoria, with Bass Coast a priority council area which has been allocated a minimum of $25 million.
Seven homes have already been completed and 30 new homes are underway. The total Big Housing Build has already invested $14 million in Bass Coast, and created 125 jobs, she said.