The properties would be purchased in Sydney and coastal areas in the next five
years at a cost of $420 million.
Young families and older people will also be separated in
new public housing developments to avoid incompatible lifestyle problems.
Elderly residents will also have access to funds to modify
their own homes to avoid having to move as they age while a “granny
watch” would be established to encourage residents to look out for each
other. Safety inspections of homes would also be undertaken each year.
The changes are the first phase of the State Government’s
affordable housing policy.
NSW Premier Morris Iemma said the plan was needed to address
increasing demand for public housing among the State’s increasingly ageing
population.
“Over the next decade, the demand for social housing
for older people will grow by around 36 per cent,” he said.
“There has been a massive demographic shift in the
demand for public housing.
“Our investment in public housing will ensure we have
enough accommodation to meet growing demand from older people.”
Eighty four-year-old Bexley North resident May Harris has
lived in public housing for more than 60 years.
The Canterbury
Hospital volunteer and
mother of seven moved into a unit complex dedicated to older residents three
years ago and plans never to move.
“I love it,” she said. “It is very peaceful
and the neighbours are very friendly.”