Mount Alexander Shire Council has welcomed a $650,000 grant from Community Bank Maldon and District for the development of affordable housing in Maldon.
The grant, along with a $400,000 contribution from Council, will deliver two modular homes for workers in Maldon.
The contribution will also help accelerate the development of the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust.
The project will demonstrate what the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust is about – more affordable, appropriate, secure rental housing.
It will be managed by Haven Home Safe, a professional community housing provider, ensuring fair and expert tenancy management.
Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Cr Rosie Annear, said that the funding is a welcome contribution.
“Like many other places throughout our shire, Maldon faces a critical shortage of housing for workers,” said Mayor Annear.
“The exceptional contribution from Community Bank Maldon and District will help us deliver real housing that will have a real impact.
“It also brings the value of the trust to over $1 million, accelerating their ability to deliver more affordable housing across the shire.
“This is exactly why Council established the trust –to respond to a range of housing needs in our community.
“The trust is part of our commitment to increase affordable housing within our shire, and it’s so exciting to see things beginning to fall into place.
“I’d like to thank Community Bank Maldon and District for their generous funding and for understanding that this housing will make a tangible difference in our community.
The funding comes from Community Bank Maldon and District’s BIG Project program, which reinvests money back into the community.
Chair of Community Bank Maldon and District, Ross Egleton, said that the bank is proud to support their community.
“The BIG Project program aims to deliver long-lasting benefits to our community,” said Mr Egleton.
“Many of our fellow residents face challenges, some of which are affordable housing and an increased cost of living.
“Maldon in particular is in critical need of housing.
“Our workers need local and affordable housing, and we seek to address this issue in collaboration with Council.
“We’re working towards our vision of a thriving, connected and sustainable Maldon.
“The purpose of this grant is to be future-focused, strategic and have a significant impact on our community.
“We’re looking forward to working with Council to deliver these homes and are proud to part of the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust’s first project.”
