NEW shared and supported disability accommodation opened in Frankston North recently was motivated by the “critical lack of suitable housing for people with high complex needs”, according to Community Housing Victoria chairperson Dennis Clark.
“We are committed to doing more as there are a large number of people with a disability wanting suitable accommodation, not only in this region but all across Victoria.”
The six-bedroom home designed, built and managed by Community Housing Vic Ltd, contains two semi-independent units. It will support six people aged 17-27 with complex support needs.
Funding of $1.4 million was provided under the state government’s Innovative Accommodation and Support Initiative to CHVL with Karingal Inc which supports and advocates for people with special needs, securing ongoing funding to support those living in the home.
Frankston Council provided the land on a long-term lease.
The project is a partnership by CHVL, Frankston Peninsula Carers Inc, Department of Health and Human Services, Frankston Council and Karingal Inc.
“Community Housing Victoria has been providing innovative housing options for those with a disability for more than 23 years,” Mr Clark said.
“We have over 1800 people living with a disability in our housing across Australia. CHVL are pleased to be a part of this unique project which will be a terrific resource for the community.
Frankston Peninsula Carers’ Berryl Gibb said a not-for-profit group supporting parents and carers of children with a disability was “instrumental in raising awareness of the shortage of disability housing with Frankston Council, and in initiating the project by lobbying [the council] to provide the land”.
A common area including raised garden beds, landscaping, seating and a gazebo is offered for the use of residents and their families.