BeyondHousing officially opened its newest $6.1 million social housing development in Shepparton on the 1st of August 2023.
The project received significant support through a $4.5 million investment from the Peter & Lyndy White Foundation, a contribution of $945,355 from Homes Victoria’s Social Housing Growth Fund, and an additional $725,000 from BeyondHousing.
Designed by BY Projects Architecture and constructed by locally owned Sessions Builders, the 13 one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom unit development have been built to modern residential standards, including landscaping and an urban design that complements the local neighbourhood.
These new homes are the latest in a long-standing partnership between the Peter & Lyndy White Foundation and BeyondHousing.
The Peter & Lyndy White Foundation first began discussions with Beyond Housing, formally known as Rural Housing Network, in June 2015.
Peter White said the Foundation’s first commitment to building houses with BeyondHousing was in 2018, comprising 11 houses.
“We were impressed with their professionalism and their willingness and capacity to fund 10% of the cost of future projects,” he said.
“(Then) in 2022-23, we jointly committed to build 60 houses accommodating 113 of their clients.
“Our partnership has become closer and stronger, transforming the lives, when all committed projects are completed, for 413 people, giving them stable, affordable housing,” Peter said.
BeyondHousing’s recently appointed Board Chair, Ben Ruscoe, said this project underscored the organisation’s ongoing commitment to tackling homelessness and creating affordable housing options.
“The success of this social housing development project wouldn’t have been possible without the significant contributions of our partners, the Peter & Lyndy White Foundation and Homes Victoria. Their commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need has been instrumental in turning our vision into a reality. Together, we have not only built new homes, but we have also laid the foundation for a fresh start for many individuals and families,” Ben said.
BeyondHousing CEO Celia Adams said these new homes would provide hope, stability, and the promise of a better tomorrow for the residents.
“Today, we celebrate not only the bricks and mortar but also the many lives that will be transformed within these walls. I hope this community will thrive with kindness, compassion, and a sense of togetherness,” she said.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, the Hon. Colin Brooks MP
“We’re proud of our partnership with Beyond Housing which will deliver 20 new homes in Shepparton. Partnering with the community housing sector ensures housing is built where it’s needed and helps to address the challenges faced in regional Victoria.
This project was developed in partnership with Homes Victoria under the Victorian Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build. Homes Victoria invested more than $900,000 to build the 20 new homes, giving up to 27 people a place to call home.”
