By Peter Douglas
Yarra Ranges Council is attempting to alleviate a “affordable housing crisis” in the shire, through flagging the sale of 67-69 Anderson Street, Lilydale.
At its Tuesday 24 October meeting, Yarra Ranges Council moved that the residentially zoned parcel of land – deemed to be a surplus council asset – could be considered for the purpose of building social and affordable housing.
The land, which is fenced and contains limited play equipment, could be a good match for sale to a registered housing association or housing provider, according to the council.
The location is also attractive due to its close position to amenities such as shopping facilities and GPs.
When discussing the issue in the chamber, council noted there was a serious issue in the shire, with an estimated shortfall of 920 suitable dwellings for social housing.
Speaking for the proposal, Tony Inglese, from the Yarra Ranges Housing Action Group, said the issue had increased even further since 2014.
Mr Inglese said more families than ever are experiencing homelessness for the first time.
He likened the issue to before Ireland experienced its own homelessness crisis.
“We need enough housing for people on very low incomes. Until we have that, homelessness will continue to rise,” he said.
“Having crisis beds for people who fall into homelessness is important, but the vital thing is to keep that stay as brief as possible … by moving people quickly into permanent, affordable housing. And that’s what this proposal is about.
“That’s a small start. Surely, we can make this one first step to go much larger steps.”
Mr Inglese’s sentiment was well-supported by homelessness crusader, Cr Tim Heenan.
Cr Heenan said Mr Inglese is well-placed to provide an accurate, detailed response to the homelessness issue in the Yarra Ranges.
“Tony is a man I’ve known for many years and who has a substantial passion for what he believes in,” Cr Heenan said.
“Not only with affordable housing, but for the untiring work he does for the community in helping people and people who are in a substantial impoverished situation in their life.
“It (homelessness) is getting worse … it needs to be said we have to come together as a community.
“I believe what is being proposed here tonight is a very small start, but I believe a few things will grow from this.”
Cr Heenan described the site as “perfect” for what council wanted to achieve.
Lilydale, in particular, is a noted hub for homelessness and in need of further support.
Cr Heenan earlier this year joined Holy Fools chief executive officer Neal Taylor in calling for a drop-in centre at Lilydale for Holy Fools.
They have described such a centre as a ‘must’ for the region.
“We keep doing this because we haven’t got the ultimate. Holy Fools needs a drop-in centre, a factory space in Lilydale, and we need someone to come forward,” Cr Heenan said.
