Government on track to hit target of 30,000 affordable homes by 2020
More than 18,000 homes have been newly built in seven years
40,000 jobs created, creating $9 billion of value for the WA economy
The Liberal National Government has reached another milestone on its path to delivering 30,000 affordable housing opportunities for West Australians by 2020.
Housing Minister Brendon Grylls today announced the key mark of 25,000 affordable homes for people on low-to-moderate incomes had now been achieved.
"The original target of 20,000 opportunities laid down in the Liberal National Government's Affordable Housing Strategy was achieved in June 2015, and a new target of 30,000 by 2020 was set," Mr Grylls said.
"The Affordable Housing Strategy continues to deliver great social and economic outcomes for the people of Western Australia. Over seven years, about 60,000 West Australians have been assisted with a place to call home."
The Minister said 18,000 of the homes delivered over the seven years of the strategy had been newly built, contributing $9 billion to the WA economy and nearly 40,000 jobs in the construction sector and broader economy.
"Through the strategy, the State Government has a range of initiatives that are addressing many aspects of housing affordability - from homelessness through to home ownership," he said.
"It emphasises the importance of partnering across government, the private sector and not-for-profit organisations as well as the creation of opportunities across the housing continuum, from social housing for people on very low incomes, through to home ownership for people on low-moderate incomes."
Mr Grylls said ensuring there was a safety net for Western Australia's most vulnerable citizens and real pathways beyond social housing for those with the means was fundamental to the Government's strategy.
"As is ensuring that the home ownership dream remains alive for people on modest incomes through the delivery of affordable, entry level housing and Keystart home loans," he said.
"The State Government's Keystart home loans business has provided more than 63,000 low-deposit loans over the past 28 years, with 88 per cent of current borrowers being modest income first homebuyers."
Fact File
The 25,000 affordable housing opportunities delivered under the strategy includes 15,300 low-deposit Keystart home loans, including 2,500 shared equity homes (where people co-own their property with the Housing Authority), 3,700 discounted private rentals and 6,200 social housing properties
Minister's office - 6552 6100
