It is hoped new community housing in Marsden will help address a shortage of National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) accommodation.
The first sod was turned last week on the construction of a “community housing solution” – two, three-bedroom houses – funded by council-owned entity investLogan.
investLogan Chair Steve Greenwood said the current rate of construction of community homes doesn’t keep pace with the growing need, much less manage the backlog of people waiting for suitable NDIS accommodation.
“There is a growing need for housing that is suitable for those living with disabilities within our community,” Mr Greenwood said.
“investLogan is committed to delivering social projects that support our community and improve liveability for all levels of need.
“This development is just a small contribution, but if it is getting a handful of people into homes where they feel entirely supported and have all their needs met then we are extremely pleased with that outcome.”
The two houses will be provided as NDIS housing and is expected to also provide facilities for a supported independent living provider to be present on site.
The development is being undertaken in partnership with BlueCHP and Compass Housing. BlueCHP is investLogan’s development partner and Compass Housing is a not-for-profit community housing provider which has been contracted to provide ongoing property and tenancy management services.
Compass representative Emma Duiz said specialist disability accommodation was a game changer in terms of the way we, as a community, provide housing for people with disabilities.
“Everyone has a right to live as part of the community, and to have choice and control over their own housing situation. Projects like this help make that possible.”
Each house will be designed to incorporate a high level of physical access provision for people with significant physical impairment and requiring high levels of support.
The homes are scheduled for completion late this year.
Deputy mayor Jon Ravel said delivery of NDIS housing was an excellent result for the region.
“We’re very pleased to see the delivery of this very important housing project that will provide people in need with a space where they can feel comfortable and supported,” Cr Raven said.
“Logan is one of the most diverse cities in Australia. Diversity is more than the language that you speak or where you were born, it is also about ability. This housing will go a long way in making sure people living with disability feel welcome and included in our city.”
