New Social Housing Initiative Announced in Waratah West

23 July 2024

In a significant move to address the housing crisis in Newcastle, a new social housing project was announced today by a coalition of government officials. The initiative, which includes contributions from all three levels of government, aims to deliver modern, accessible homes to some of the region’s most vulnerable residents.

The announcement was made by Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Federal Minister for Housing Julie Collins, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon, and State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery, among others. The project will transform nine ageing properties into 40 new homes across several sites, including Waratah West and Lambton, with an investment exceeding $24 million.

At the heart of the announcement is the development on Landa Parade in Waratah West. This $3.48 million project will replace two old homes with a new 10-unit complex designed to be accessible and sustainable. The complex will include six two-bedroom units and four one-bedroom units, each equipped with solar panels and low-flow taps. The site will also feature drought-resistant native plants, enhancing both environmental sustainability and aesthetic appeal.

The broader initiative is part of the NSW Government’s $250 million investment to fast-track social housing across the state, which includes six projects in Newcastle alone. These projects are expected to deliver 51 new dwellings and create 85 jobs for local tradies and suppliers over the next two years. Notably, the new homes on Stannett Street in Waratah West, which include eight social housing units, have already been completed and are ready for tenants.

This collaborative effort, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the City of Newcastle and the NSW Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC), underscores the urgent need for social and affordable housing in the region. The MoU facilitates expedited project approvals and funding allocations to address the increasing rates of homelessness in Newcastle.

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery emphasised the gravity of the housing crisis, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing housing stress and homelessness through significant investments in public, social, and affordable housing. She noted that additional projects are underway, including new units in Wallsend expected to be completed by 2025, and upcoming constructions at Prospero Street and Matfen Close in Maryland.

Federal Housing Minister Julie Collins underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among federal, state, and local governments to tackle housing challenges. The federal government’s $32 billion Homes for Australia plan aims to deliver even more homes across the country.

Sharon Claydon, Federal Member for Newcastle, expressed her satisfaction with the ongoing efforts and future projects funded under the $2 billion Social Housing Accelerator by the Albanese Labor Government. The program will support the construction of nine new homes in Wallsend and the restoration of existing vacant homes across Greater Newcastle.

Mayor Nuatali Nelmes highlighted the importance of this development in the context of Newcastle’s ongoing housing crisis, expressing gratitude to the NSW Government for their commitment to improving housing outcomes while also supporting local jobs and economic growth.