TROY BELL MP
Member for Mount Gambier
Your Independent voice
in State Parliament
New Homes for Key Skilled Workers
Tuesday February 27, 2024Builders sought for government contract
The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme continues to achieve key milestones, with a Limestone Coast builder sought to construct the second lot of homes in Mount Gambier.
A tender for the work has opened to build two, four bedroom homes northeast of Mount Gambier's city centre.
Minister for Housing and Urban Development Nick Champion said it was hoped a builder will be appointed so construction can begin mid-year, to enable the first tenants to move in by the end of 2025.
This latest development follows the appointment of third-generation family-owned South East company Empak to construct four, single-storey homes in the city.
Construction of those four homes by Empak will start by the end of this month after planning approval was secured earlier this year.
Minister Champion said once complete, the six new homes in Mount Gambier will house essential workers like teachers, police officers, and healthcare workers to help ease pressure on the local housing market.
The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme will deliver 35 new regional homes across Mount Gambier (6), Bordertown (5), Renmark (5), Port Augusta (4), Ceduna (6) and the Copper Coast (9) to address the critical need for purpose-built government worker housing.
"Mount Gambier was identified as a priority region in need of purpose-built housing for essential workers and the Office for Regional Housing has been working tirelessly to identify and secure land appropriate for that purpose," Minister Champion said.
"We are looking for a local builder who can help us fast track this latest opportunity, that will help support quality government services in Mount Gambier and also help reduce pressure on the private rental market.
"The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme is designed to tackle the chronic housing shortage in country areas and we hope to have the first homes ready for essential workers to move in next year."
Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell welcomed news the project was progressing.
"Two major challenges confronting our region include the lack of available housing and attracting and retaining skilled workers," he said.
"The Regional Key worker scheme is a crucial initiative that addresses both issues by providing quality, affordable homes for our essential workers.
"Through the involvement of local builders, the scheme generates a ripple effect, promoting job creation and ongoing skills development within our regions, further benefitting the community."