In a landmark move to address the pressing need for affordable housing, the Malinauskas Labor government has announced a record call-out for builders to embark on what promises to be the first significant expansion of public housing in over a generation.
With tenders now open, the government is seeking construction partners to undertake the development of 167 public homes across the state, with an estimated value between $50 million and $60 million. This initiative represents a crucial step forward in the government’s commitment to providing safe and secure housing for South Australians facing barriers to long-term stability.
Nat Cook, Minister for Human Services, expressed enthusiasm about the progress being made.
“We are making strong progress on our commitment to deliver the first real increase of public housing in more than three decades.” This sentiment underscores the significance of the endeavour, which aims to address the critical shortage of affordable housing in the region.
The homes, ranging from two to four bedrooms, will be constructed across several metropolitan suburbs and in seven regional areas.
Mary Patetsos, Presiding Member of the SA Housing Trust Board, emphasised the importance of local builders in this endeavour.
“If you are a South Australian builder, now is the time to work with us to re-build public housing in this state. While we support your business with a pipeline of work, you are part of improving public housing for South Australians.”
Since the 2022 election, the government has committed an additional $232.7 million for public housing, resulting in the construction of 564 new homes and significant upgrades to 350 vacant properties. Furthermore, plans to sell 580 public housing properties have been scrapped, signalling a renewed focus on bolstering the state’s public housing supply.
Currently, 60 homes have been completed and occupied, with 152 homes under construction and an additional 71 homes included in the current tender. Over the next three months, contracts will be awarded, leading to the completion or commencement of construction on a total of 283 homes. Looking ahead, another 154 homes are slated to begin construction in the coming year, with land already secured to expedite the process.
The South Australian Housing Authority (SAHA) is spearheading this ambitious initiative, aiming to construct over 1,000 new homes over four years through its capital programs and additional government investment. Moreover, South Australia recently secured an additional $135.8 million from the Commonwealth for social housing, further augmenting the state’s efforts in this regard.
For local builders interested in participating in this transformative project, tenders for the current round will close on March 20, 2024. Information on how to become one of SAHA’s pre-qualified builders can be found on their website.
In conclusion, this initiative represents a pivotal moment in South Australia’s housing landscape, signalling a concerted effort by the government to address the pressing issue of affordable housing. With partnerships forged between the government and local builders, this initiative promises to build stronger, more resilient communities across the state.
Metropolitan areas for new public housing being built include Morphett Vale, Blair Athol, Kilburn, Enfield, Ingle Farm, Parafield Gardens, Ferryden Park, Croydon Park, Evanston, Kurralta Park, Munno Para, Salisbury, Brahma Lodge, Elizabeth North, Elizabeth Downs, Alberton, Taperoo, Dover Gardens, Clovelly Park, Somerton Park, Croydon Park, Woodville North, Woodville South, Croydon Park, Prospect, Brompton, Kilburn, Blair Athol, Mile End, Rostrevor, Paralowie, Modbury North, Gilles Plains, Edwardstown, Seaford Rise, Park Holme, and West Richmond.
Regional areas for new public housing being built include Wallaroo, Moonta, Clare, Kadina, Whyalla Stuart, Whyalla Norrie, and Mount Gambier.
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